We’ve all seen shows and movies and read stories about pirates, right? But how much of it was fiction, and how much was actually true? In this article, we’ll uncover over 30 incredible, 100% true facts about pirates that might surprise you. From hidden treasures to strange habits, let’s dive into the real world of pirates and see just how much you know about them.
The Value of a Map
Pirates weren’t just after gold, silver, and other treasures like the books will have you believe — they also hunted valuable maps. In 1680, pirates stole what would forever be known as the most valuable pirate booty in the world, which contained important navigational maps, charts, and descriptions.
Pirate Bartholomew Sharpe created an English version of this Spanish atlas and gave it to the King of England as a gift. Little did he know that this gift may just have saved him from being executed. What a find!
