The Golden Age of Piracy: The Truth Behind the Mythical Tales

Zlati vek piratstva: Resnica za mitskimi zgodbami
Foto: Freepik

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Piracy has been a part of human history for centuries, but the period often referred to as the Golden Age of Piracy is shrouded in myth and legend in the world of popular culture. This period of time, which lasted from the beginning of the 18th century to the middle, produced many famous pirate characters, surrounded by romantic and often unrealistic stories. However, the true history of piracy during this period reflects a more complex and often less romantic view of pirate life.

The Golden Age of Piracy began at a time when European countries were fighting for control of trade routes and colonies in the Americas and the Caribbean. Pirates took advantage of these geopolitical disputes and instability on the seas. Many pirates were former sailors or privateers who had previously worked for government forces, but for various reasons, including insufficient pay and poor working conditions, chose to live outside the law.

Piracy in this period was not all about plunder and warfare. Pirates established their own codes and forms of government on their ships, which were often surprisingly democratic. Many pirate captains were elected by the crew, and decisions about looting and other actions were often made by vote. This was in stark contrast to the strict hierarchies that dominated merchant and military ships of the time.

Nevertheless, life on a pirate ship was far from idealized notions. Conditions were often dangerous, with shortages of food and drinking water, disease and the risk of violent death. While some pirates managed to amass great wealth, most of the booty was divided among the crew, with individual shares often being relatively modest.

Piracy also had its dark side. Attacks on ships and coastal settlements often involved violence and even murder. Despite some popular stories about “good-natured” pirates, it was a violent and dangerous way of life.

The collapse of the Golden Age of Piracy came when European countries began to take more seriously the security of their trade routes. The building of more organized navies and merchant fleets, along with more coordinated international efforts to suppress piracy, marked the end of the piratical freedom that had prevailed earlier in the century.

The Golden Age of Piracy remains a fascinating and complex period in history. Although romantic notions of pirates such as treasure, adventurous spirit and heroic captains are part of pop culture, real history reveals a more raw and realistic picture. This period reflects not only the search for freedom and adventure, but also the consequences of political and economic strife and the difficult life at sea in the early 18th century.

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