Author Description

If you've watched the STARZ TV show, Black Sails, you're familiar with the concept of women as pirates in the Caribbean. But do you know why some women during the "Golden Age of Piracy" chose such a life? While many previous studies on women who chose the life of a pirate focused on their actions after they became pirates, this study sought to answer the question of why some women chose such a dangerous lifestyle. By comparing previous studies of women-pirates alongside an analysis of gender roles and expectations during this time period, and case studies of six women who became pirates, this thesis revealed the true reasons behind why some women chose this life.