Dan Snow's History Hit Pirates: Piracy in the South China Seas
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Jul 6, 2025 In this insightful discussion, Andrew Choong, Curator of Historic Photographs & Ship Plans at the National Maritime Museum, reveals the exhilarating story of Zheng Yi Sao, a pirate leader who outshone Blackbeard. They dive into the tactical sophistication of pirate fleets in the South China Sea and their operations akin to military forces. Andrew shares how piracy flourished amidst the Qing dynasty's struggles and the dynamic relationships between pirates and European powers, highlighting a fascinating chapter in maritime history.
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Zheng Yi Sao's Pirate Empire
- Zheng Yi Sao commanded a vast, highly disciplined pirate fleet with strict rules and severe punishment.
- Her ability to outsmart the Qing navy and European powers showed a level of organisation uncommon in piracy.
Qing Naval Weakness and Trade Boom
- Qing dynasty's naval defense was fragmented and plagued by corruption and rivalry.
- Growing European trade increased pirate targets, enabling their expansion despite Qing power.
Pirates as Kingdom-Like Entities
- South China Sea pirates resembled kingdoms with fleets, treaties, and trading networks.
- They operated from coastal and island bases, sometimes near major cities, integrating into local economies.