A General History of the Pirates - Charles Johnson

There is a fascination surrounding the subject of pirates and pirate-lore that centers around the romanticized impression of lawless, brutal ruffians pillaging ships, hunting for gold and treasure, and traveling in immense ships waving the skull-and-bones flag. Some might be surprised that this view is actually very close to the truth, as the “Golden Age” of piracy produced many grandiose and notorious characters whose incredible stories have found their way into this one-of-a-kind book.

Originally published in 1724, A General History of the Pirates grippingly chronicles the adventures and misadventures of the most infamous pirates who ruled the high seas at the turn of the 18th century. From Charles Vane’s rampant use of torture on his crew, to the incredibly successful Bartholomew Robert’s pirating career, “Blackbeard’s” legendary fearsome demeanor, and Captain Kidd’s tragic end, these truly enthralling stories of privateers turned bandits will leave anyone on the edge of their seat.

The author, whose true identity is still debated, doesn’t omit the fierce female pirates of the day who left their mark on the male-dominated vocation. This book was incredibly successful when it first came out and is a valued edition to this day, often used as a reference by researches, writers, and those curious about the alluring maritime history.