32. What are Buccaneers?

In the 16th century Spain colonized the Caribbean. Non-Spanish settlers were not welcome and considered outcasts.  These outcasts started selling dried meats to the locals and ships.  The locals called them “Boucaniers.” This French term translates to a particular wooden grill used to cook and dry the meat.  

A Boucanier would wear a loose-fitting shirt, short breeches, a cap with a long brim on the front, and pointed shoes. 

Their weapons of choice were firearms and Flemish knives that could be used for skinning or as a weapon.  

From 1620 on, Boucaniers started developing reputations as navigators and sharpshooters. Driven away by Spanish authorities, many of them became Pirates.  By 1680, the term Buccaneer was being used to describe any Pirate or Privateer. 

At this stop are a collection of Spanish and French Hunting Knives of that region.