The blockbuster film series ‘Pirates of the Caribbean,’ was hugely popular. But who were the real pirates who ruled the Caribbean at a time of trade routes, when rum became a big business, and when the world was ruled by naval fleets on the seas?
Blackbeard is probably the most famous pirate in the world. Born Edward Thatch or Teach, he made his name as one of the most feared pirates that ever sailed the seas. Many stories surround Blackbeard. He was said to have wrapped fuses around his black beard, for which he is named. He also carried multiple pistols and knives on his person in order to intimidate his enemies. For a less intimidating sailing experience, look into the Day Skipper Course from solentboattraining.co.uk/rya-sailing-courses/rya-day-skipper-practical-sailing
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Henry Morgan – After being arrested, Henry Morgan, a Welshman, became the governor of Jamaica. Henry was a wanderer who could not settle down. He was a perfect pirate because he loved to travel and never settled. He and his men once confined all of the residents of a Cuban village to a church in order to plunder it! He plundered many rich towns, became a wealthy and respected pirate and married his cousin Mary Elizabeth.
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Calico Jack – Jack Rackham is known as ‘Calico Jack,’ because of the colourful clothes he wore made of calico. He was also the captain of two female pirates, Anne Bonny and Mary Read. Jack fell in love with Anne, a married woman. He lavished her with treasures that he plundered. Anne became a member of Jack’s crew when their affair was revealed. She disguised herself as Adam and became one of the most fearless pirates on the ship. The crew was very successful and captured many fishing boats around Jamaica and Bahamas.
