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Pirate Facts Main
General History
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 Jolly
Roger
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Although the original purpose of the pirate flag is unknown, it may have
been designed to strike fear into the hearts of potential victims, and encourage a
speedy surrender. The mere sight of the black and white flag probably sent chills
down the spines of many a captain and crew; although the black flag was not as
greatly feared as the red flag. The sight of a red flag meant that no mercy would be
shown in battle.
Each pirate captain had a differently designed Jolly Roger (pirate flag).
Often, the flags would show symbols of death and destruction. The name "Jolly
Roger" is thought to have originated from a nickname for the devil, "Old
Roger". However, it is more likely to have gotten its name from the French word
for "pretty red", "Jolie Rouge". The classic design, skull and
crossbones, was used to indicate in the captain's log the death of a sailor. It is
suggested by experts that this is origin of the actual appearance of the Jolly
Roger.
We have compiled a list of some of these flags, with the name of the
corresponding pirate captain to which it belonged.
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Bartholomew Roberts (#1)
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Bartholomew_Roberts (#2)
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Christopher Moody
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Edward England
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Edward Teach (Blackbeard)
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Christopher Condent
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