Golden Age of Piracy

In this episode, we explore the Golden Age of Piracy, a dramatic era from the mid-17th to early 18th century when pirates roamed the Atlantic and Indian Oceans in pursuit of wealth, freedom, and rebellion against oppressive maritime systems. The discussion traces the era’s major phases, from buccaneering raids to the Pirate Round and the post-Spanish Succession boom, while highlighting the surprisingly democratic codes that governed many pirate crews. Legendary figures such as Blackbeard, Anne Bonny, and Mary Read bring this world to life, revealing how pirate ships offered both danger and unusual forms of equality. We also examine why sailors turned to piracy and how this turbulent age continues to shape the myths, stories, and pop culture images of pirates today.