15. Pirate Flags

For almost three centuries a black flag with a white skull and crossbones, also known as a Jolly Roger, has been the symbol for pirates throughout the western world.  It is believed that the term Jolly Roger originated from the term "Jolie Rouge" or “Pretty Red” from the red flags used by French Privateers.  

The skull and crossbones symbol were first recorded on flags in the 17th century. It is believed that the idea originated from the designs on Barbary Pirate Flags which were green flags with a skull symbol. 

In addition to the skull and crossbones, other symbols were added to make them distinctive.  An hourglass meant time is running out for the victim to surrender peacefully.  Many flags had dancing skeletons or a skeleton piercing a heart to show they had no mercy.  The flags were generally made by the pirate ship’s sailmaker.

According to a British Admiralty report from July 18th, 1700, Emanuel Wynn, a French Pirate Captain, was the first pirate to use a black flag with skull and crossbones.  Wynn’s flag also included an hourglass.    

To avoid detection, under daily operations, a pirate ship would generally fly stolen flags from various countries. 

When ready to fire on prey the pirates would hoist their true black flag.  At this point the victims had the option to surrender or resist.  If the captured ship decided to resist, the black flag was taken down and changed to a red one. This meant that the Pirates would not show mercy and take the ship without any prisoners. This was called “giving no quarter”.

On this stop, using the ropes, determine which pirate flag to raise.  The black flag will scare and intimidate your captives.  Or will you give no quarter and show no mercy and raise the red flag?