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We are frequently asked where the original idea for pirates came from for our business. Most people have an understanding of who pirates are, and what they do but like many things in history.. Pirates, and piracy have been misunderstood.
Pirates, for us, represent a symbol. A symbol that stands against the status quo, not for it. A symbol that says anyone can achieve greatness, no matter their status today. A symbol that stands in defiance of everyone who has told us it couldn't be done. Our Jolly Roger flies in the face of adversity. Tattered from the stormy weather it has become a beacon of hope that if there is a will, there is a way.
While most of what we know about pirates involves cannons, tattered sails, jolly rogers, and rum – the truth has more depth. Becoming a pirate was more than about personal enrichment (let’s be honest, it was a little bit about that), it was about making a stand.
Being a pirate meant taking a stand against the status quo, against hierarchical systems that gave everyone their “place” in the world. Being a pirate meant you refused to accept what you were given, and had dreams for more. Pirate crews operated on a democratic model, where decisions were made collectively, and everyone had a say in the affairs of the ship. This influenced future systems and contributed to the ideals of equal representation and fair decision-making.
Having no patience for the political side of things, Pirates took it upon themselves to create unique and hidden routes of trade that connected almost every known civilization.
When the world disagreed, conflicts ensued, and inter-personal relationships prevented the growth of commerce globally, the pirate ships (many of whom utilized legal trade ports) continued to connect our world because piracy forced nations and merchants to invest in stronger naval forces and secure trade routes, leading to the growth of powerful navies and the establishment of colonial outposts for defense.
Pirates relied heavily on navigational skills and detailed maps to navigate treacherous waters and locate hidden treasures. Their expertise in navigation and mapping contributed to advancements in cartography, improving our understanding of the world’s geography.
Pirates, with their extensive experience and knowledge of the seas, played a significant role in advancing nautical innovations. They contributed to the development of efficient sailing techniques, navigation tools, and ship designs that improved maritime exploration and trade for future generations.
As long as you adopted the “Pirate” way of life, and had some sailing or buccaneering skills you were able to join any crew.
It didn’t matter who your parents were, what your education level was, your sex, your orientation, or your religion. A pirate was a pirate and pirates typically operated under a code of conduct or articles that outlined the rules and expectations within their communities. These codes often governed issues like profit-sharing, decision-making, discipline, and division of labor, including accepting the lifestyle and risks associated with piracy.
Pirates were masters of guerrilla warfare tactics, using surprise attacks, hit-and-run strategies, and unconventional methods to overwhelm their enemies. Pirates also used distinct flags, commonly known as “Jolly Roger,” to strike fear into the hearts of their targets. This early form of branding and psychological warfare is still employed today, with various organizations and military units using flags, logos, and symbols to establish their identity and intimidate adversaries.
Pirates employed naval blockades to control key trade routes and disrupt commerce. This concept of blocking or controlling access to maritime areas is still utilized today in naval operations.
Finally, pirates established hidden bases and remote hideouts in secluded coves and islands, allowing them to evade capture and resupply their ships.
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Jolly Roger Marketing is a service-disabled veteran owned full-service marketing, consulting, and fractional CMO company based in Houston, Texas.
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