HISTORY This Week Captain Kidd and the Nazis
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May 18, 2020 In this insightful discussion, Richard Zacks, an acclaimed author and historian known for his work on Captain Kidd, unpacks the notorious pirate's complex legacy. Zacks explains how Kidd's execution in 1701 not only marked the end of his life but also set off a chain reaction affecting piracy laws and even modern legal principles. He reveals the blurred lines between privateering and piracy, the tumultuous events of Kidd’s life, and how his tales of buried treasure influenced popular culture, ultimately linking to themes of justice that resonate today.
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Kidd's Rise From Sailor To Privateer
- William Kidd rose from a Scottish seafaring background to become a privateer in the Caribbean.
- He earned a ship called the Blessed William and a reputation fighting for England before losing a ship to mutiny.
A Private Commission With Big Investors
- Wealthy backers (including the Earl of Bellomont) privately commissioned Kidd to hunt pirates and French ships.
- His custom ship, Adventure Galley, launched a mission funded to make investors vast returns.
Voyage Trouble And A Fatal Bucket Blow
- Kidd's voyage failed through disease, shipworms, and crew losses, leaving him short-handed and pressured.
- Crew unrest led to violence; Kidd struck gunner William Moore who later died.
