Piracy

ocean · history · ships

Ancient ocean raiders. The earliest pirates we know about were called the Sea Peoples, who attacked ships in the Mediterranean and Aegean Seas starting around 1300 BC. They were so famous for their raids that entire civilizations worried about them.

Stealing at sea. Pirates attack other ships to steal valuable cargo and goods, or sometimes to take people hostage and demand payment. Their targets are usually ships traveling through narrow waterways where escape is harder.

Pirates vs privateers. While pirates are criminals, privateers were actually hired by governments to attack enemy ships during wars. Both groups used the same tactics, but privateers had official permission.

Predictable routes. Pirates love to attack ships in narrow channels because merchant ships have to follow the same routes, making them easy targets. Busy waterways have always been dangerous places for sailors.