Calico Jack

Calico Jack Rackham (* December 21 1682 in Bristol, England; † November 17, 1720 in Santiago de la Vega, Jamaica ) was a pirate captain of the 18th century. He derived its name from the colorful calico clothing he wore. Today, he is best known as his crew were the two most famous female pirates, Anne Bonny, with whom he had two children and Mary Read. Part of it was also called John Rackham.

Life

Rackham was helmsman on a ship under the command of Captain Charles Vane. When Vane refused to attack a French ship, the crew was so upset that they mutinied and Rackham appointed captain. Rackham returned to the site in order, attacked the French ship and defeated it.

After this victory, and encouraged by the captured riches aboard the hijacked ship Rackham suggested his team that they henceforth piracy are expected to tackle. Maybe that decision the crew was favored by the shadow of the mutiny that hung over everyone's head.

Later Rackham accepted the offer of a royal pardon and sailed to the coast of New Providence. At this time, Rackham met a married woman named Anne Bonny, and fell in love with it. Rackham was infatuated with her and provided her with large parts of its prey. He then joined the crew of Captain Burgess at which a former pirate and privateer was now himself, who cruised through the Caribbean in search of Spanish ships.

When the affair between Rackham and Anne Bonny became known threatened the governor of New Providence, Anne flogging for adultery. Instead Anne leave the pillory, the couple decided to set up a team and steal a sloop. Since it was feared, the team could refuse to sail with a woman ( women on board bring bad luck supposedly ), Anne disguised as a man named Adam Bonny. She was a valued member of the crew and proven in numerous successful sea battles.

After a few successes, the Bahamas sent a heavily armed ship in order to catch them. Rackham and some of his men were forced to flee. Later, they were captured by a Spanish ship, but managed to escape. Fleeing to Jamaica around they captured some fishing boats and a sloop. Thereupon the governor decided to catch Rackham, and continued the pirate hunter Captain Barnet on him, the Rackham finally captured.

It is reported Rackham had made ​​a deal with the governor, after which he would arise, if Anne and another female pirate, Mary Read, Grace would be granted. It is unclear whether this tradition is correct. Nevertheless, the two women were able to escape the gallows, by pretending to be pregnant.

Rackham and his men were eventually found in Santiago de la Vega in Jamaica on November 16, 1720 in court, found guilty and hanged the following day.