Richard Blakemore

Richard Blakemore, an Associate Professor of Social and Maritime History at the University of Reading, delves into the fascinating world of piracy in his latest book. He explores why the late 17th and early 18th centuries became the iconic period for piracy. The discussion covers the complex dynamics of Caribbean piracy, including the blurring lines between piracy and privateering, and how politics shaped figures like William Kidd. Blakemore emphasizes the intricate relationship between piracy, colonial politics, and the legal perceptions that emerged during this turbulent time.

Richard Blakemore, author of "Enemies of All: The Rise and Fall of the Golden Age of Piracy," shares fascinating insights on piracy's golden age from the 1660s to the 1730s. He discusses the blurred lines between pirates, privateers, and naval officers, showcasing how figures like Blackbeard were more complex than popular myths suggest. Blakemore also highlights the camaraderie and daily life aboard pirate ships, questioning romanticized notions of piracy while revealing the historical realities that shaped their world.