Pirates have always fascinated me, with their daring sword fights, buried treasure, and epic sea battles in swashbuckling films. But let’s be real—Hollywood’s version of pirate life is way more fantasy than fact.
The truth about pirates is far grittier and a lot less glamorous than what we see on screen. I’m about to share 20 myths about pirates that movies have made us believe—and reveal what life as a pirate was really like.
Pirates Buried Their Treasure
The idea of pirates burying chests full of gold on deserted islands is a staple of pirate lore, but it’s mostly fiction. Real pirates spent their loot quickly on supplies, ship repairs, or luxuries like food and alcohol. Only a few stories, like that of Captain Kidd, suggest any treasure was ever buried.
Pirates Wore Eye Patches, Peg Legs, and Hook Hands
While some pirates did sustain injuries, the stereotype of the eye patch, peg leg, and hook hand is exaggerated. Most pirates were able-bodied, and those with severe injuries were more likely to retire or die than continue a life of piracy. The eye patch may have been used by some sailors to keep one eye adjusted to darkness, but it wasn’t a universal pirate trait.
All Pirates Had Parrots
The image of a pirate with a parrot on his shoulder is iconic, but it’s more a product of fiction than fact. While some pirates may have kept birds as pets or sold exotic animals, it wasn’t common for them to have a parrot constantly perched on their shoulder.
Pirates Were Ruthless and Evil Villains
Hollywood often depicts pirates as ruthless villains, but many were more complex. Some were former sailors who turned to piracy out of desperation or because they were wronged by the very governments they opposed. Others operated under a code of conduct that included rules about how to treat their crew and prisoners.
Pirates Constantly Fought with Swords
Pirate movies often feature epic sword fights, but in reality, pirates preferred firearms. Muskets, pistols, and cannons were the weapons of choice, and close combat with swords was a last resort. Real pirate battles were often more about intimidation than drawn-out fights.
Pirate Ships Flew the Jolly Roger
While the Jolly Roger—black flags with skulls and crossbones—became a symbol of piracy, it wasn’t used by all pirates. Many pirate ships flew various flags, often red or black, to signal their intent. The skull and crossbones design was just one of many, and some pirates even designed their own unique flags.
Pirates Were Unwashed and Filthy
Pirates are often depicted as dirty and smelly, but hygiene was important for survival at sea. Many pirates bathed regularly when fresh water was available and tried to keep clean to avoid disease. They also had rules about keeping their ships in good condition, as cleanliness was crucial for preventing illness.
Pirates Spoke in “Arrr” and “Matey”
The famous “pirate accent” we know today is largely a Hollywood invention. It was popularized by actor Robert Newton, who played Long John Silver in the 1950 film Treasure Island. Real pirates came from various countries and spoke in many different languages and dialects, not just a single “pirate speak.”
Piracy Was a Male-Only World
While most pirates were men, there were some famous female pirates, such as Anne Bonny and Mary Read. These women fought alongside male pirates and were as tough and ruthless as their male counterparts. The idea that piracy was exclusively male is a myth.
Pirates Were Always at Sea
Movies often show pirates living their entire lives at sea, but in reality, they spent significant time on land. Pirates needed to trade, restock supplies, and enjoy the spoils of their raids. They also needed safe havens where they could repair their ships and avoid naval authorities.
Pirates Had a Captain Who Ruled Absolutely
In popular culture, pirate captains are depicted as absolute rulers of their ships, but pirate crews often had a more democratic system. Captains were usually elected by the crew and could be replaced if they failed to lead effectively. Important decisions, such as where to sail or who to attack, were often made by vote.
Pirate Ships Were Huge and Packed with Cannons
While some pirate ships were large and heavily armed, many were small, fast vessels that relied on speed and surprise rather than firepower. Pirates often captured smaller, faster ships to use in their raids, as these were more effective for quick getaways and avoiding the navy.
Pirates Drank Rum All Day
Rum was certainly popular among pirates, but the idea that they drank it all day long is exaggerated. Water and other provisions were often scarce, and pirates had to ration their supplies carefully. Drinking too much could lead to poor decision-making and accidents, so they typically drank in moderation.
Pirates Had Hidden Treasure Maps
The concept of a treasure map leading to buried gold is largely a myth, popularized by stories like Treasure Island. Real pirates didn’t usually draw up elaborate maps, and most of their loot was spent rather than hidden away. The idea of following a map to a secret treasure is pure fiction.
Pirates Were Outlaws with No Allegiances
Many pirates operated as privateers, meaning they had legal permission from a government to attack enemy ships during wartime. These pirates were essentially mercenaries, and they often shifted allegiances depending on which nation would pay them the most. The line between pirate and privateer was often blurred.
Pirates Only Attacked Ships at Sea
While attacking ships on the open sea was a common pirate tactic, they also raided coastal towns, forts, and settlements. These land raids could be highly lucrative and were often easier than taking on well-armed ships. Pirates were opportunists and attacked wherever they saw the best chance for plunder.
Pirates Were Poor and Destitute
Not all pirates were penniless outcasts. Some became incredibly wealthy, at least for a time, by plundering ships and settlements. However, the high life of a pirate was often short-lived, as they faced constant danger from the authorities, rival pirates, and the harsh conditions of life at sea.
Pirates Were Loners
Pirates are often portrayed as solitary figures, but in reality, they were highly social and operated in crews that were like tight-knit communities. Loyalty to the crew was crucial for survival, and pirates relied on each other for protection and support.
Pirates Were Always on the Run from the Law
While pirates did operate outside the law, there were periods when they were tolerated or even welcomed by certain governments. Some pirates received pardons in exchange for their services as privateers or agreed to retire peacefully. The idea that they were always hunted is a simplification.
Pirates Always Wore Tricorn Hats
The tricorn hat is a staple of pirate costumes, but it wasn’t a universal accessory. Pirates wore a variety of clothing, much of it practical for life at sea, and their fashion choices were often dictated by what they could steal. The tricorn was just one of many types of hats they might have worn.
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Ellen has been obsessed with logic puzzles, jigsaws, and cryptograms since she was a kid. After learning she was taught how to play chess wrong by a family friend (so they could win), she joined her school chess club and the rest is history.
