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The questions everyone asks
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Hoist The Colour Yo, ho, haul together, hoist the colors high. Heave ho, thieves and... |
Question of Cindy, Maude and Chip (04.07.2016): What is a Sea biscuit or Hardtack?
A:
A sea biscuit, more commonly known as hardtack, was once the staple food of any sailor.
Sea voyages were long and food preservation posed serious... read more »
A:
A sea biscuit, more commonly known as hardtack, was once the staple food of any sailor.Sea voyages were long and food preservation posed serious... read more »
Question of yo ho a pirate's life for me !!!! (04.05.2016): What exactly is Piece of Eight?
A:
The eight coins (also known as the “real de a ocho”, “Spanish dollar”, and the “eight-real coin”) were minted by the Spaniards from the silve... read more »
A:
The eight coins (also known as the “real de a ocho”, “Spanish dollar”, and the “eight-real coin”) were minted by the Spaniards from the silve... read more »Question of VINCI (04.01.2016): What weight can a pirate ship withstand?
A:
Everything depends on the type of the pirate ship!
The preferred ships for pirates were the Brick, the Sloop, the Brigantine, the cutter, and the... read more »
A:
Everything depends on the type of the pirate ship!The preferred ships for pirates were the Brick, the Sloop, the Brigantine, the cutter, and the... read more »
Question of Vinci (03.31.2016): Did pirates also plunder on land?
A:
Indeed, pirates did not primarily attack at sea; they also made raids on land.
Pirate Nau repeatedly attacked cities on land. His taking of... read more »
A:
Indeed, pirates did not primarily attack at sea; they also made raids on land.Pirate Nau repeatedly attacked cities on land. His taking of... read more »
Question of Jackrackam (03.29.2016): Hello! Can you tell me which style of ship is closest to the Black Pearl?
A:
The Black Pearl, from the movie Pirates of the Caribbean, like the Flying Dutchman, was partly inspired by Dutch flutes of the seventeenth century,... read more »
A:
The Black Pearl, from the movie Pirates of the Caribbean, like the Flying Dutchman, was partly inspired by Dutch flutes of the seventeenth century,... read more »Question of hellekin beowulf (03.29.2016): Where in the Caribbean is Île-à-Vache (Cow Island)?
A:
The Île-à-Vache is located south of Haiti. It owes its name to the huge amount of oxen and cows that were found there.
In 1670 Henry Morgan was escor... read more »
A:
The Île-à-Vache is located south of Haiti. It owes its name to the huge amount of oxen and cows that were found there.In 1670 Henry Morgan was escor... read more »
Question of A legend (03.22.2016): What is the black spot?
A:
The Black Spot is a literary device invented by Robert Louis Stevenson, author of the novel Treasure Island.
In the book pirates are presented with... read more »
A:
The Black Spot is a literary device invented by Robert Louis Stevenson, author of the novel Treasure Island.In the book pirates are presented with... read more »
Question of fredeleme (03.21.2016): How fast did a boat of the Hispañola type from the Treasure Island book move?
A: This boat was a schooner. Its speed could vary between 5 and 14 knots, (between 6 and 16mph, or between 9 and 26km/h).
read more »
A: This boat was a schooner. Its speed could vary between 5 and 14 knots, (between 6 and 16mph, or between 9 and 26km/h).
read more »
Question of kool (03.16.2016): Who was Edward Low's crew?
A:
Shortly before a tough battle against the Royal Navy Edward Low commanded the “Fancy” and his second Charles Harris the “Ranger”.
At this time... read more »
A:
Shortly before a tough battle against the Royal Navy Edward Low commanded the “Fancy” and his second Charles Harris the “Ranger”.At this time... read more »
Question of Bellec Justine (03.16.2016): Did Mary Read have a husband?
A:
During the war of succession of Spain Mary Read was committed in the Hussars and became the aide of a Flemish officer called Read.
They married... read more »
A:
During the war of succession of Spain Mary Read was committed in the Hussars and became the aide of a Flemish officer called Read.They married... read more »
Question of Arianit (03.10.2016): What is the date of the first edition of Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson?
A:
Treasure Island was first published in serial form (literature item inserted at the bottom of a newspaper) in an English newspaper for adolescents... read more »
A:
Treasure Island was first published in serial form (literature item inserted at the bottom of a newspaper) in an English newspaper for adolescents... read more »Question of mary-kate (03.07.2016): What is a stop/layover?
A: A stopover is a temporary breakpoint on a maritime route. It is the action of a vessel to stop to refuel, embark, and disembark passengers and cargo... read more »
A: A stopover is a temporary breakpoint on a maritime route. It is the action of a vessel to stop to refuel, embark, and disembark passengers and cargo... read more »
Question of hugo (03.03.2016): What did the sailors aboard the HMS Victory eat?
A:
Sailors kept chickens housed in cages aboard and goats that were sometimes released on bridges. They caught fish and had cattle and pigs they put in a... read more »
A:
Sailors kept chickens housed in cages aboard and goats that were sometimes released on bridges. They caught fish and had cattle and pigs they put in a... read more »Question of Justine (03.02.2016): To reply to a game at school, 1.What did pirates hide in the sand? 2.What
operation should incoming pirates perform on a dock side in order not to
fail? 3.Where are the toilets on a boat?
A:
1. They hid a chest filled with gold coins :)
2. Pirates had furled the sails (the fold accordion on the yard) and anchor
3. On a small ship the... read more »
A:
1. They hid a chest filled with gold coins :)2. Pirates had furled the sails (the fold accordion on the yard) and anchor
3. On a small ship the... read more »
Question of renji (03.02.2016): On a boat which is the port and which is the starboard?
A:
The port is on the left if you are on a ship and you look toward the bow (front). Starboard is on the right.
The origin of these words:
Port:... read more »
A:
The port is on the left if you are on a ship and you look toward the bow (front). Starboard is on the right.The origin of these words:
Port:... read more »
Question of Alice (02.29.2016): When sailors suffering from scurvy arrived at an island, the disease regressed and disappeared. Why?
A:
Scurvy is a disease related to dietary deficiency of vitamin C, which causes receding gums, bleeding, and death.
This disease was widespread among... read more »
A:
Scurvy is a disease related to dietary deficiency of vitamin C, which causes receding gums, bleeding, and death.This disease was widespread among... read more »
Question of corentin (11.23.2015): Is it possible to find flintlock pistols in working order? Could you also explain their operation? Thank you
A:
There are still flintlock pistols usable today, provided that they have been properly maintained.
It is possible to buy functional reproductions... read more »
A:
There are still flintlock pistols usable today, provided that they have been properly maintained.It is possible to buy functional reproductions... read more »
Question of Josy Vermette (11.20.2015): How was the construction of pirate boats made? My 8 year-old son must answer this question quite explicitly. Thank you very much.
A:
The boats were not tailored to the pirates :)
In reality the pirates plundered ships (typically merchants) and seized them.
I will very roughly... read more »
A:
The boats were not tailored to the pirates :)In reality the pirates plundered ships (typically merchants) and seized them.
I will very roughly... read more »
Question of Anonymous (11.18.2015): What is the nickname of Bartholomew Roberts?
A:
Bartholomew Roberts (1682 - February 10 1722), whose real name is John Roberts, the Black Baronet was British and one of the most famous pirates.
He... read more »
A:
Bartholomew Roberts (1682 - February 10 1722), whose real name is John Roberts, the Black Baronet was British and one of the most famous pirates.
He... read more »Question of Jack sparrow (11.18.2015): I have to make a presentation on the symbols and attributes of pirates and their meanings (e.g. the wooden leg, parrot...) Can you help me and give some information? Thank you in advance...
A:
What characterizes pirate majority makes rather logical sense:
- The wooden leg was best to replace an amputated limb lost in battle and allowed... read more »
A:
What characterizes pirate majority makes rather logical sense:- The wooden leg was best to replace an amputated limb lost in battle and allowed... read more »
Question of (11.16.2015): What are the nicknames of Robert Surcouf, king of the privateers?
A:
- "Fat Robert" because he was a little paunchy, over thirty years, and the malouins gave him this nickname as well.
- "Ogre of Bengal" was ... read more »
A:
- "Fat Robert" because he was a little paunchy, over thirty years, and the malouins gave him this nickname as well.- "Ogre of Bengal" was ... read more »
Question of Abyssa (11.16.2015): The story of "Pirate of the Caribbean" takes place in what year? Thank you.
A:
The year of the history of the "Pirates of the Caribbean" trilogy is not defined.
But it can roughly be deduced by reflecting on when it... read more »
A:
The year of the history of the "Pirates of the Caribbean" trilogy is not defined.But it can roughly be deduced by reflecting on when it... read more »
Question of La buse (11.13.2015): Can you give some names of French privateers operating in the 1720s please?
A: Here are some French privateers active in the 1720s:
- Jean Doublet (1655-1728)
- Claude de Forbin (1656-1733)
- Nicolas Baeteman (1659-1720)
-... read more »
A: Here are some French privateers active in the 1720s:
- Jean Doublet (1655-1728)
- Claude de Forbin (1656-1733)
- Nicolas Baeteman (1659-1720)
-... read more »
Question of Malamy (11.13.2015): Why do boats disappear in the Bermuda Triangle?
A:
The disappearance of ships in the Bermuda Triangle is due to a natural phenomenon well known today.
The cause of disappearance of ships and aircraft... read more »
A:
The disappearance of ships in the Bermuda Triangle is due to a natural phenomenon well known today.The cause of disappearance of ships and aircraft... read more »
Question of Mephisto (11.12.2015): How much did Somalian piracy cost the global economy?
A:
Somalian piracy would have cost about US$18 billion (13.9 billion Euros) in losses in world trade during 2012 according to sources from the World... read more »
A:
Somalian piracy would have cost about US$18 billion (13.9 billion Euros) in losses in world trade during 2012 according to sources from the World... read more »Question of lola (11.11.2015): Could pirates catch gangrene on boats?
A:
Yes, and they had a strong chance of having gangrene because naval battles and their collisions inflicted injuries and drugs were scarce.
Some... read more »
A:
Yes, and they had a strong chance of having gangrene because naval battles and their collisions inflicted injuries and drugs were scarce.Some... read more »
Question of Philip (11.10.2015): In what year did privateers appear?
A:
The word privateer is applied to both ships and men.
A registered letter of May 25 1206 was found of record to Eustache le Moine. This letter did... read more »
A:
The word privateer is applied to both ships and men.A registered letter of May 25 1206 was found of record to Eustache le Moine. This letter did... read more »
Question of perdro (11.10.2015): I want to know what “luff” means. Thank you in advance. Sincerely Pedro
A:
Luff means that voluntarily brings the stem to the wind direction. We can also say "come to luff" or up in the wind.
Luff to luff (tack) means... read more »
A:
Luff means that voluntarily brings the stem to the wind direction. We can also say "come to luff" or up in the wind.Luff to luff (tack) means... read more »
Question of VIVIE (11.10.2015): Does La Buse really rest in his tomb in St. Paul Reunion?
A:
As I explained on the page dedicated to La Buse, his tomb located to the marine cemetery of St. Paul to the island of Reunion is purely symbolic because... read more »
A:
As I explained on the page dedicated to La Buse, his tomb located to the marine cemetery of St. Paul to the island of Reunion is purely symbolic because... read more »Question of Anonymous (11.05.2015): How many pirates were there during the golden age of piracy?
A:
According to the archives it was possible to count about 5,000 pirates in the Caribbean between 1716 and 1726 during the golden age of piracy.
©... read more »
A:
According to the archives it was possible to count about 5,000 pirates in the Caribbean between 1716 and 1726 during the golden age of piracy.
©... read more »
Question of Koolaza (11.05.2015): Do you know of pirates or privateers who enjoyed great fame in and around 1720?
A: Here are some famous figures around 1720:
The Pirates :
- Olivier Levasseur (a.k.a. La Buse),
- John Rackham (a.k.a. Calico Jack),
- Anne... read more »
A: Here are some famous figures around 1720:
The Pirates :
- Olivier Levasseur (a.k.a. La Buse),
- John Rackham (a.k.a. Calico Jack),
- Anne... read more »
Question of anonymous (11.05.2015): Who is Long John Silver?
A:
Long John Silver is the brainchild of Robert Louis Stevenson's novel Treasure Island.
Long John Silver is a very clever Irish pirate: cunning,... read more »
A:
Long John Silver is the brainchild of Robert Louis Stevenson's novel Treasure Island.Long John Silver is a very clever Irish pirate: cunning,... read more »
Question of Christine (11.05.2015): Are there books concerning the youth of Olivier Levasseur La Buse in Calais or his life before becoming a pirate?
A:
I know of only one book that traces the life of Olivier Levasseur a.k.a. La Buse, but it is somewhat fictionalized, so it closely follows all the known... read more »
A:
I know of only one book that traces the life of Olivier Levasseur a.k.a. La Buse, but it is somewhat fictionalized, so it closely follows all the known... read more »Question of rulmoch (11.04.2015): Who was the captain of the Black Falcon?
A:
The pirate William Kidd (1645-1701), captain of the brigantine 18th century. Click on the image to enlarge it.
read more »
A:
The pirate William Kidd (1645-1701), captain of the brigantine 18th century. Click on the image to enlarge it.
read more »
Question of Helen (11.04.2015): I have for a long time been looking for the exact name of a prow sculpture
that had a face carved mostly in wood and was laid in front of a sailboat.
Could pirates decorate their boats with such sculptures?
A:
Pirates did not have time to carve and decorate their ships with figureheads.
If they had a figurehead, it was certainly from a ship they had... read more »
A:
Pirates did not have time to carve and decorate their ships with figureheads.If they had a figurehead, it was certainly from a ship they had... read more »
Question of Captain Pearl (11.03.2015): How much is an 18th century (brand new) galleon to build?
A:
It is difficult to evaluate but it was about 30,000 pounds toward the 16th and 17th centuries, knowing that if a craftsman earned 15 pounds a month,... read more »
A:
It is difficult to evaluate but it was about 30,000 pounds toward the 16th and 17th centuries, knowing that if a craftsman earned 15 pounds a month,... read more »
Question of mimel (11.02.2015): What are the differences between pirates and privateers?
A: You can find the answer in the definitions section.
read more »
A: You can find the answer in the definitions section.
read more »
Question of M.R (11.02.2015): What’s a sailor abandoned by its crew on a deserted island called?
A:
An abandoned sailor is called a "maroon" (from a verb). The dictionary states that "maroon: to put ashore and abandon on a deserted island or coast by... read more »
A:
An abandoned sailor is called a "maroon" (from a verb). The dictionary states that "maroon: to put ashore and abandon on a deserted island or coast by... read more »Question of Marion (11.02.2015): For schoolwork I need to know the names of two blood brothers born in the
early 16th century in the Ottoman Empire that spread terror in the Mediterranean.
A:
These are the famous Barbarossa brothers. Aroudj Baba (1474-1518) and Khair Eddin Pasha (1476-1546).
read more »
A:
These are the famous Barbarossa brothers. Aroudj Baba (1474-1518) and Khair Eddin Pasha (1476-1546).
read more »
Question of sandra (10.30.2015): Where and when did Robert Louis Stevenson die?
A:
Robert Louis Stevenson was born in Edinburgh, Scotland on November 13 1850 and died in Vailima, Polynesia on December 3 1894.
read more »
A:
Robert Louis Stevenson was born in Edinburgh, Scotland on November 13 1850 and died in Vailima, Polynesia on December 3 1894.
read more »
Question of margaux (10.29.2015): What were the greatest dangers on the boat?
A: The worst danger on a boat is fire. Rooster (the cook, coq) could do the kitchen in calm weather. Bad weather would turn off his stove.
Disease was... read more »
A: The worst danger on a boat is fire. Rooster (the cook, coq) could do the kitchen in calm weather. Bad weather would turn off his stove.
Disease was... read more »
Question of gbn (10.28.2015): What’s the name of the large protruding piece in the bow of a ship which is used to manipulate the anchor?
A:
This is the cathead.
This is a very thick solid piece of wooden frame that overflows the forecastle and contains clans (notch/cuts) serving high hoist... read more »
A:
This is the cathead.This is a very thick solid piece of wooden frame that overflows the forecastle and contains clans (notch/cuts) serving high hoist... read more »
Question of christine76 (10.27.2015): Where were pirates most present? I thank you in advance and congratulations
on this site.
A:
Pirates were most present in the Caribbean, specifically in Tortuga Island north of Santo Domingo, which was a nest of pirates and a strategic point... read more »
A:
Pirates were most present in the Caribbean, specifically in Tortuga Island north of Santo Domingo, which was a nest of pirates and a strategic point... read more »Question of saranou (10.26.2015): Why have pirates become heroes of novels and movies?
A:
Any subject can be inspiration for a novel, film, documentary.
Robert Louis Stevenson’s (1850-1894) masterpiece novel Treasure Island opened th... read more »
A:
Any subject can be inspiration for a novel, film, documentary.Robert Louis Stevenson’s (1850-1894) masterpiece novel Treasure Island opened th... read more »Question of tite-cat (10.24.2015): Were the clippers armed? How many sailors minimum were needed to maneuver one, and how many to maneuver a frigate? Congratulations on
this excellent site!
A:
Here is an example of the number of sailors on the frigate VIII "La Renommée" (Fame) which amounts to a total of 206 souls:
- Staff Grade: 10
- Gua... read more »
A:
Here is an example of the number of sailors on the frigate VIII "La Renommée" (Fame) which amounts to a total of 206 souls:- Staff Grade: 10
- Gua... read more »
Question of webrodeur (10.24.2015): What are the most common diseases encountered on boats in the eighteenth
century?
A: The pirates were dying more often of disease than in fighting due to poor hygiene on boats, stale food, stale water...
Typhus and typhoid were most... read more »
A: The pirates were dying more often of disease than in fighting due to poor hygiene on boats, stale food, stale water...
Typhus and typhoid were most... read more »
Question of CHARLINE (10.24.2015): I wonder how female pirates were dressed.
A:
Female pirates usually dressed like men for several reasons:
- Some did not want to reveal their gender before a ship full of men (Anne Bonny and... read more »
A:
Female pirates usually dressed like men for several reasons:- Some did not want to reveal their gender before a ship full of men (Anne Bonny and... read more »
Question of anonymous gunner (10.24.2015): Hello! I wonder which is the boat that can have the most guns. There
were several kinds of guns. (eg Davy Johns canons of triple) Thanks!!!
Your site is excellent!
A: Boats with the most guns were warships called "The three-decker ships", around 1800. These ships could contain up to 120 guns.
Click images to... read more »
A: Boats with the most guns were warships called "The three-decker ships", around 1800. These ships could contain up to 120 guns.
Click images to... read more »
Question of Claire (10.23.2015): Hello, I've seen in a video game (Pirates of the Caribbean) several Caribbean islands and I wonder if they really existed: Oxbay, Redmond, Isla
Muelle, Cliff Flower. Thanks in advance.
A: No, these islands are... read more »
A: No, these islands are... read more »
Question of lola (10.23.2015): What is the fabric of pirates’ pants?
A: The fabric was generally solid to protected from splinters due to the impact of the ball on the side of the ship, but also flexible to allow freedom of... read more »
A: The fabric was generally solid to protected from splinters due to the impact of the ball on the side of the ship, but also flexible to allow freedom of... read more »
Question of le réunionnais (10.22.2015): Where was La Buse executed?
A:
The pirate Olivier Levasseur known as La Buse was executed in the city of Saint Paul on the island of Reunion in the evening of July 7 1730.
read more »
A:
The pirate Olivier Levasseur known as La Buse was executed in the city of Saint Paul on the island of Reunion in the evening of July 7 1730.
read more »
Question of boum67panpan (10.22.2015): Hello! I’d like you to name (if possible) a large family of corsairs or 4 famous
privateers who existed. Thank you.
A: Here're the 4 famous privateers:
Jean Bart,
René Duguay-Trouin,
Jacques Cassard,
Robert Surcouf.
read more »
A: Here're the 4 famous privateers:
Jean Bart,
René Duguay-Trouin,
Jacques Cassard,
Robert Surcouf.
read more »
Question of julie (10.20.2015): Who are the four most famous pirates?
A: The four most famous pirates are in order:
- Edward Teach the "Blackbeard", who during 2 years shook the southern United States and the... read more »
A: The four most famous pirates are in order:
- Edward Teach the "Blackbeard", who during 2 years shook the southern United States and the... read more »Question of iL SiGnOr (10.20.2015): Could you explain how pirates loaded the cannons with an illustration if
possible? Was the way to load a cannon and flintlock guns of the era of piracy
the same? Thank you.
A: Here is an illustration of handling a cannon of 32 English pounds. (click images to enlarge).
At the Clear the ship for action of battle the mantle... read more »
A: Here is an illustration of handling a cannon of 32 English pounds. (click images to enlarge).
At the Clear the ship for action of battle the mantle... read more »Question of mahé (10.20.2015): How was life on a pirate ship?
A: Between attacks and looting the pirates were likely to be immensely bored and become very irritable aboard their narrowboat.
The space under the... read more »
A: Between attacks and looting the pirates were likely to be immensely bored and become very irritable aboard their narrowboat.
The space under the... read more »
Question of fiolene (10.16.2015): Hello, I would like to know how pirates are dressed?
A:
The pirate was excluded from society, he was marginal. There could be several outfits. He wore the clothes he plundered from his enemies, such as the... read more »
A:
The pirate was excluded from society, he was marginal. There could be several outfits. He wore the clothes he plundered from his enemies, such as the... read more »Question of Rose (10.16.2015): Hello! I'd like to know when piracy started and approximately when it ended
A: Piracy would have started as soon as man embarked on the sea. It is assumed that it existed in the thirteenth and twelfth centuries BC in the eastern... read more »
A: Piracy would have started as soon as man embarked on the sea. It is assumed that it existed in the thirteenth and twelfth centuries BC in the eastern... read more »
Question of Brigitte (10.16.2015): Who was Charlotte Berry? Thank you very much for your site! It is excellent.
A:
Charlotte de Berry was born in England in 1636, followed her husband into the navy disguised as a man.
She was captured by a captain who was leaving... read more »
A:
Charlotte de Berry was born in England in 1636, followed her husband into the navy disguised as a man.She was captured by a captain who was leaving... read more »
Question of V (10.05.2015): What actually was the grapple used for? Could it be used for things
other than collision? Could it serve as the butt of a weapon (the cap)
of the gun that was not used to fire only?
A:
The grapple was used for several things:
- It could replace the anchor on light boats,
- It served as an anchor on the bank to make maneuvers,
- It... read more »
A:
The grapple was used for several things:- It could replace the anchor on light boats,
- It served as an anchor on the bank to make maneuvers,
- It... read more »
Question of Philippe 45 (09.17.2015): Hello! The hold where the powder was stored had a special name, a feminine
name (I think). Do you know it?
A:
This is Saint Barbara.
The Spanish word santabárbara, the corresponding Italian word Santa Barbara, and the obsolete French Sainte-Barbe signify the p... read more »
A:
This is Saint Barbara.The Spanish word santabárbara, the corresponding Italian word Santa Barbara, and the obsolete French Sainte-Barbe signify the p... read more »
Question of Raistlin (09.12.2015): Who is the pirate who had assembled the biggest fortune? Who was the most
wanted pirate?
A:
The pirate who gathered the biggest fortune is Henry Avery whose fortune was estimated at 325,000 pounds (45 million Euros!).
Don’t confuse him wit... read more »
A:
The pirate who gathered the biggest fortune is Henry Avery whose fortune was estimated at 325,000 pounds (45 million Euros!).Don’t confuse him wit... read more »
Question of Johann (09.11.2015): We always speak of the "seven seas". But what are these seas? Are the oceans among them? Thank you for enlightening me, I'm a landlubber :-)
A:
In the Middle Ages, the "seven seas" are:
- Adriatic Sea,
- Arabian Sea,
- Black Sea,
- Caspian Sea,
- Mediterranean Sea,
- Persian Gulf,
- Red... read more »
A:
In the Middle Ages, the "seven seas" are:- Adriatic Sea,
- Arabian Sea,
- Black Sea,
- Caspian Sea,
- Mediterranean Sea,
- Persian Gulf,
- Red... read more »
Question of benjamin (09.10.2015): Hello! I would like to know if it was possible to trace the guns of the age of pirates
A: There are still guns dating back 300 years in museums.
If you search for guns in wreckage on the seabeds, there will remain nothing because the... read more »
A: There are still guns dating back 300 years in museums.
If you search for guns in wreckage on the seabeds, there will remain nothing because the... read more »
Question of weapons (07.28.2015): Hello! I would like to know what were the weapons of pirates in the 17th,
18th, and 19th centuries. Were they firearms and white arms?
A: The pirates used:
- Flintlock pistols, which could also serve as club once they had fired.
- Daggers, knives, and cutlasses, which are easy to... read more »
A: The pirates used:
- Flintlock pistols, which could also serve as club once they had fired.
- Daggers, knives, and cutlasses, which are easy to... read more »
Question of Tite-cat (07.28.2015): I want to know what you know on currencies used by (end of 17th and
early 18th century) pirates. What are their equivalences between themselves?
A:
Here is money of the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries in different countries.
I put the piece of eight each proportion because it was the most... read more »
A:
Here is money of the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries in different countries.I put the piece of eight each proportion because it was the most... read more »
Question of Kasumi (07.28.2015): Did female ship captains ever exist?
A:
There were many female shipmasters and it has not always been easy for them to be accepted in this world of men.
But a few have etched their names in... read more »
A:
There were many female shipmasters and it has not always been easy for them to be accepted in this world of men.But a few have etched their names in... read more »
Question of Alix (07.28.2015): I heard about Bloody Mary and Davy Jones, but are they real or fictional pirates?
A:
Bloody Mary is Mary Read’s nickname, She was a famous female pirate with Ann Bonny.
And whether Davy Jones was real or not we don't know. But yo... read more »
A:
Bloody Mary is Mary Read’s nickname, She was a famous female pirate with Ann Bonny.And whether Davy Jones was real or not we don't know. But yo... read more »
Question of Ricco (07.28.2015): I wonder if Gold Roger in the comics series "One Piece" is a completely
imagined pirate or copied to a real pirate (compared to the way he smiled
before being executed, his joy at being a pirate, compared to his character).
A:
Gold Roger, pirate lord (One Piece):
Eiichiro Oda was inspired by the pirate La Buse (a.k.a. Olivier Levasseur) during the creation of his manga One... read more »
A:
Gold Roger, pirate lord (One Piece):Eiichiro Oda was inspired by the pirate La Buse (a.k.a. Olivier Levasseur) during the creation of his manga One... read more »
Question of Derground (07.28.2015): Hello! I would like to know all the names of a pirate or privateer crew captain with sailors. Thank you in advance.
A: Amazing question! Probably intended for a role play:)
Here’s the crew of Blackbeard a.k.a. Edward Teach in 1718:
James Blake,
Josep... read more »
A: Amazing question! Probably intended for a role play:)
Here’s the crew of Blackbeard a.k.a. Edward Teach in 1718:
James Blake,
Josep... read more »
Question of benjamin (07.24.2015): I wish to know how pirates were finding ships. Your site is great, it's one of
the best sites I've seen! Thank you for the answer.
A: Often the pirates plundered fishing ships. They made arrangements to find fast and highly maneuverable ships to better attack their victims. So they... read more »
A: Often the pirates plundered fishing ships. They made arrangements to find fast and highly maneuverable ships to better attack their victims. So they... read more »
Question of La mite (07.24.2015): Hello, I saw some names of ships before the term "HMS". I want to know what it means. Thank you. :)
A:
HMS stands for "Her Majesty's Ship" or "His Majesty's Ship", where there is a king or queen at the head of the British government.
All ships of the... read more »
A:
HMS stands for "Her Majesty's Ship" or "His Majesty's Ship", where there is a king or queen at the head of the British government.All ships of the... read more »
Question of suspect (07.24.2015): Who is the pirate who collected the most balls and injuries? Please cite the number of injuries.
A:
This is Blackbeard who died in battle in 1718 against the Royal Navy.
25 injuries were counted on him in total: 20 stab wounds and 5 gunshots.
read more »
A:
This is Blackbeard who died in battle in 1718 against the Royal Navy.25 injuries were counted on him in total: 20 stab wounds and 5 gunshots.
read more »
Question of Anonymous (07.21.2015): I wonder how many men there were on a pirate ship. Thank you in advance!
A:
A:
It depends on the size of the pirate ship. During spike ports there could be 200 pirates on frigates.
But when they hunted their victims (often... read more »
A:
A:
It depends on the size of the pirate ship. During spike ports there could be 200 pirates on frigates.But when they hunted their victims (often... read more »
Question of Raistlin, bours and berserk.99 (07.21.2015): I have heard of Davy Jones (Pirates of the Caribbean 2) in several stories. Is
he a pirate legend? If this is the case, do you know what this legend is?
A:
Davy Jones would be a particularly incompetent sailor. He was originally a tavern boss who kidnapped the sailors or the devil himself in the... read more »
A:
Davy Jones would be a particularly incompetent sailor. He was originally a tavern boss who kidnapped the sailors or the devil himself in the... read more »Question of aanik (07.21.2015): What is the name of the gun used by pirates in the past?
A:
All depends on the time! But I think you need to talk about the XVII & XVIII centuries. The pirates used several types of guns, such as:
- The... read more »
A:
All depends on the time! But I think you need to talk about the XVII & XVIII centuries. The pirates used several types of guns, such as:- The... read more »
Question of mac (07.20.2015): Did Captain Jack Sparrow really exist?
A:
Jack Sparrow was born in the Disney Studios - he was invented. :)
There would still be a little known privateer from Dunkerque (France) from the... read more »
A:
Jack Sparrow was born in the Disney Studios - he was invented. :)There would still be a little known privateer from Dunkerque (France) from the... read more »
Question of ben58d12 (07.20.2015): I read on another website that pirates were pirates to realize their dream
of becoming rich: was it true?
A: It depends on which century we are interested in.
In antiquity one became a pirate to get rich indeed.
During the golden age of piracy to the early... read more »
A: It depends on which century we are interested in.
In antiquity one became a pirate to get rich indeed.
During the golden age of piracy to the early... read more »
Question of Captain Pearl (07.20.2015): Who was the first pirate in history? Of what nationality?
A: Piracy goes way back to the moment the man started to navigate. The answer to this question will remain a mystery.
read more »
A: Piracy goes way back to the moment the man started to navigate. The answer to this question will remain a mystery.
read more »
Question of Flibustier des Caraïbes (07.20.2015): I watched Pirates of the Caribbean 1 and 2 and stumbled across your site
(which is also great!!!). I wonder whether you had the lyrics of the music
of "Yo Ho (A Pirate's Life for me)?" With my sincere thanks and congratulations
A: These are the words of the original music from Disney:
Yo Ho (A Pirate's Life For Me)
Artiste : Jonas Brothers
Yo ho, yo ho, a pirate's life... read more »
A: These are the words of the original music from Disney:
Yo Ho (A Pirate's Life For Me)
Artiste : Jonas Brothers
Question of Os (07.16.2015): What is the symbolism of the hoop in a pirate’s ear?
A: Sailors had been wearing hoops for a long time. They are subject to numerous symbols:
Since ancient times wearing a gold ring in the ear protected... read more »
A: Sailors had been wearing hoops for a long time. They are subject to numerous symbols:
Since ancient times wearing a gold ring in the ear protected... read more »
Question of jack sparow (07.16.2015): Did pirates really exist, or is it just a legend?
A: Many historical books report their presence, exploits, and looting; they really existed. And they still exist today and are rife with weapons of... read more »
A: Many historical books report their presence, exploits, and looting; they really existed. And they still exist today and are rife with weapons of... read more »
Question of grandecharlotte (07.16.2015): Why do we always see a negative image of pirates? Were they all murderers?
A: A pirate is defined as an outlaw. Most of the time he plunders, sometimes he rapes and kills. So we can only have a negative image.
Some privateers... read more »
A: A pirate is defined as an outlaw. Most of the time he plunders, sometimes he rapes and kills. So we can only have a negative image.
Some privateers... read more »
Question of Jonathan (07.16.2015): I want to know who was the greatest French pirate
A:
This was Olivier Levasseur known as "La Buse". He also left us an enigma still unsolved to this day!
read more »
A:
This was Olivier Levasseur known as "La Buse". He also left us an enigma still unsolved to this day!
read more »
Question of iL SiGnOr (07.15.2015): I am Corsica and would like to know if there was a great Corsican pirate?
A: I can cite two:
- Emmanuelli from the 17th century, Corsican pirate born Brandu. In 1638 he plundered the Corsican ship of the boss Ignaziu Pisano,... read more »
A: I can cite two:
- Emmanuelli from the 17th century, Corsican pirate born Brandu. In 1638 he plundered the Corsican ship of the boss Ignaziu Pisano,... read more »
Question of Jonathan (07.15.2015): From where are there the most sunken ships?
A:
This is undoubtedly the Cape Horn, a true marine cemetery where the sea is disassembled by icebergs, storms, and giant waves!
Cape Horn is a tip... read more »
A:
This is undoubtedly the Cape Horn, a true marine cemetery where the sea is disassembled by icebergs, storms, and giant waves!Cape Horn is a tip... read more »
Question of La pie (07.15.2015): I live in Le Havre (France). Have there been some pirates or privateers Havrais?
A: Here are some privateers from Le Havre who worked on the seas at the time of Robert Surcouf:
Baclin, Barthin, Bourbeau, Cauchois, Chamel, David,... read more »
A: Here are some privateers from Le Havre who worked on the seas at the time of Robert Surcouf:
Baclin, Barthin, Bourbeau, Cauchois, Chamel, David,... read more »
Question of Catoto (07.15.2015): What is the history of the Flying Dutchman?
A:
The Flying Dutchman is the most famous boat, and it always has been sailing since the 17th century...
It is doomed to wander forever in the sea... read more »
A:
The Flying Dutchman is the most famous boat, and it always has been sailing since the 17th century...It is doomed to wander forever in the sea... read more »
Question of Alexandre (07.10.2015): What are your top 3 biggest stories or books about pirates that I can get?
A: The biggest stories and whose writers today are largely celebrated are those of Daniel Defoe and Alexandre Olivier Oexmelin (or Exquemelin):
- History... read more »
A: The biggest stories and whose writers today are largely celebrated are those of Daniel Defoe and Alexandre Olivier Oexmelin (or Exquemelin):
- History... read more »
Question of Beber (07.10.2015): What kind of vessels did pirates use?
A: Pirates used light, very agile vessels with just tonnage and therefore very quick to pounce on their victims. The pirates’ vessels were generall... read more »
A: Pirates used light, very agile vessels with just tonnage and therefore very quick to pounce on their victims. The pirates’ vessels were generall... read more »
Question of Alexandre (07.10.2015): How much gold do you think there is at bottom of the sea at this time from acts of piracy or boats sunken for other than criminal reasons? Do you
think it is possible to bring all that gold to the surface?
A:
The seas are the largest warehouses of treasures. More than 40% of Spanish galleons have never returned to their country. A portion was not lost and... read more »
A:
The seas are the largest warehouses of treasures. More than 40% of Spanish galleons have never returned to their country. A portion was not lost and... read more »Question of Laralys (07.09.2015): Is there a special language of the pirates?
A: To my knowledge no history book refers to a specific language of the pirates.
However, they had codes that allowed them to communicate with each... read more »
A: To my knowledge no history book refers to a specific language of the pirates.
However, they had codes that allowed them to communicate with each... read more »
Question of berserk.99 (07.09.2015): Who was the cruelest pirate? And who was the fairest?
A:
The cruelest pirate is undoubtedly Edward Low (1690-1724, 34 years old), know as Ned Low, followed by Nau l'Olonnais and Edward Teach (Blackbeard).... read more »
A:
The cruelest pirate is undoubtedly Edward Low (1690-1724, 34 years old), know as Ned Low, followed by Nau l'Olonnais and Edward Teach (Blackbeard).... read more »Question of Alain Wirtensohn (07.06.2015): Hello ! Here is a quiz question: What is the real name of the pirate "Big Robert"?
A:
He's not a pirate, but a privateer. His real name is Robert Surcouf. He was a little paunchy after his 30 years old and St. Malo gave him this nickname... read more »
A:
He's not a pirate, but a privateer. His real name is Robert Surcouf. He was a little paunchy after his 30 years old and St. Malo gave him this nickname... read more »Question of Poutine (07.06.2015): Where can I find a list of boats sunk by pirates and never found?
A:
I think the Maritime Museum of Paris is well placed to answer this question. I have some information, but info is scattered amongst many books, but n... read more »
A:
I think the Maritime Museum of Paris is well placed to answer this question. I have some information, but info is scattered amongst many books, but n... read more »Question of Jez (07.06.2015): The World has changed since the 18th century, but do pirates, buccaneers,
and other outlaws still roam the seas today?
A:
Yes, pirates are always present, and piracy has tripled between 1993 and 2003. Of course, there are no longer pirates of the eighteenth century, but... read more »
A:
Yes, pirates are always present, and piracy has tripled between 1993 and 2003. Of course, there are no longer pirates of the eighteenth century, but... read more »Question of Antone (07.05.2015): In your opinion who is the greatest pirate in history?
A:
I think it's Henry Morgan (a filibuster). The capture of Panama is one of the largest expeditions led by buccaneers.
He was eventually knighted a... read more »
A:
I think it's Henry Morgan (a filibuster). The capture of Panama is one of the largest expeditions led by buccaneers.He was eventually knighted a... read more »
Question of Victphane (07.03.2015): Being a history buff I know that there were times when at the palace of Versailles kings defecated on the stairs. What was he in the galleons?
R: The toilets on the galleon were placed on the beak to the bow (front). The beak is a grid of squared timbers. The sailors did their business into the... read more »
R: The toilets on the galleon were placed on the beak to the bow (front). The beak is a grid of squared timbers. The sailors did their business into the... read more »Question of Smash64 (06.30.2015): In the pirate crew did the captain have a second officer, someone who was
almost as respected as the captain?
A: Regarding the second officer, yes, there is one. The main body trades in the vessels:
A: Regarding the second officer, yes, there is one. The main body trades in the vessels:
- The Captain The Master: The captain could not do anything...
Question of Smash64 (06.30.2015): I was wondering if you knew where the rudder was on a ship. On the deck or
on the quarterdeck?
A: It depends on its location or the century in which we ask this question. Before the 18th century (this is where I have the most knowledge) I can give... read more »
A: It depends on its location or the century in which we ask this question. Before the 18th century (this is where I have the most knowledge) I can give... read more »
Question of Victphane (06.30.2015): I have a question about pirates: they were at sea always all men, never women... What about their sex lives?
A: There has existed a few female pirates mixed with men, such as Ann Bonny, Mary Read, Ms. Ching, and they had characters strong enough to be respected.... read more »
A: There has existed a few female pirates mixed with men, such as Ann Bonny, Mary Read, Ms. Ching, and they had characters strong enough to be respected.... read more »
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