Be afraid. Be Very Afraid Matey – the Origin of Pirate Flags
Author: David Mann
Although the origin of the pirate flag is unknown, is believed to have been invented to spread fear in the hearts and minds of his enemies. The pirate flag or Jolly Roger "As often called, was probably intended to scare their potential victims in a fast delivery.
The origin of the name "Jolly Roger "are difficult to establish. Probably stems from the fact that the devil is often referred to as" Old Roger ", and so the flag suggested the wrath the devil. The skull and bones of classic design is often used in the daily master to indicate the death of a sailor. This flag was an important part of arsenal to the pirates, and is considered one first form of psychological warfare.
In popular legend, it seems that every pirate flag consisted of a skull and crossbones. This is often not the case, as the captain and his crew often wanted their own flag. While it is true that most pirate flags had a skull and crossbones on them, often have other images, such as skeletons, swords, hourglasses, goblets, and hearts.
One of the pirates most famous was "Black Bart", also known as Bartholomew Roberts. He was a native of Wales and his 4 year career captured over 400 ships and accumulated incredible wealth. They say it was a brilliant sailor, brave and innovative. His fleet scoured the seas in search of treasure, which inspired fear and dread in governments and citizens.
The governments of the Caribbean islands of Barbados and Martinique were keen to see the end of its maritime activities. In 1720, "Black Bart" captured the governor of Martinique and hung from the mast of his ship. The flag was on a plane represents the personal vendetta he had against the islands and their inhabitants. His mark was a picture of a man (presumably Bart) with a flaming sword in hand, standing with a skull on each foot. The letters "ABH" and "AMH" is registered in the skull, and was "head of household has Bahamas" and "A Head of Martinique.
Be afraid. Be very afraid.
About the author:
David Mann grew a desire to be a pirate, but has decided against a life of crime, murder and high seas hijinks. I recently saw the movie "Pirates of the Caribbean and to the dismay of his wife, began using his eye patch again. When there is no cloak and dagger, wrote articles for the site independent web as flags flag pins world flags military.
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Skull Flag
