I think black was like, “We just want your shit and we’ll let you live if you surrender” while red was like, “We’re gonna kill and then take your shit or take your shit and then kill you, either way you will not survive,” kinda thing.
What was the point of the red flags? Or… why would anyone choose to fly a red flag? I’m trying to understand why anyone would broadcast “if we come near you, you’re fucked”. It seems a bad hunting strategy.
Also, why didn’t merchant ships fly red flags to be less bothered by pirates?
Red meant that no quarter would be given, they’re going to fucking kill you. Black flag meant they would take your shit without slaughtering you. Granted, fighting back would still get you killed either way. Pirates tended to make examples sometimes, or want revenge, thus slaughter. Of course if they didn’t kill everyone, they might press-gang you into service, and now your a pirate too. So red means you’re dead.
Remember, pirates did fly red flags as well as black ones. The red ones meant you were extra fucked.
If you saw a pirate ship with a rainbow flag though , you’re in for a mean margarita and a good time.
I think they’re still after your booty.
But my booty is a treasure only for me and the crew to enjoy.
I hope they don’t run me through with their sword
I think black was like, “We just want your shit and we’ll let you live if you surrender” while red was like, “We’re gonna kill and then take your shit or take your shit and then kill you, either way you will not survive,” kinda thing.
Sometimes the black one meant they just wanted your hats.
Benjamin Hornigold. No I’m not making that up.
What was the point of the red flags? Or… why would anyone choose to fly a red flag? I’m trying to understand why anyone would broadcast “if we come near you, you’re fucked”. It seems a bad hunting strategy.
Also, why didn’t merchant ships fly red flags to be less bothered by pirates?
Red meant that no quarter would be given, they’re going to fucking kill you. Black flag meant they would take your shit without slaughtering you. Granted, fighting back would still get you killed either way. Pirates tended to make examples sometimes, or want revenge, thus slaughter. Of course if they didn’t kill everyone, they might press-gang you into service, and now your a pirate too. So red means you’re dead.
I get what you’re saying, I’m struggling to understand why any pirate would ever want to fly a red flag.