Pirate Flags (also called flying the Black) came in many different variations, we carry 18 different pirate flags. Great if ye want to decorate yar boat, home, or party. Most pirate crews developed their own flag, with the Jolly Roger becoming the most famous, which is the traditional skull and crossbones. The Jack Rackham with skull n' crossed swords be another very popular flag. The pirate flag was flown when the crew was going to attack, given the other ship a warning to stop n' be boarded.
The Jolly Roger is the name given to any of various flags flown to identify a ship's crew as pirates. Historically, the flag was flown to frighten pirates' victims into surrendering without a fight, since it conveyed the message that the attackers were outlaws who would not consider themselves bound by the usual rules of engagement and therefore might slaughter anyone who didn't comply. A red flag meant no quarter given - everyone would die.
Pirates did not fly the Jolly Roger at all times. Like other vessels, pirate ships usually stocked a variety of different flags, and would normally fly false colors, or no colors, until they had their prey within firing range. When the pirates' intended victim was within range, the Jolly Roger would be raised, often simultaneously with a warning shot across the bow of the victim. While pirates used the red, or bloody, flag as well as black flags, there was a distinction between the two. In the mid-18th century, Captain Richard Hawkins confirmed that pirates gave quarter beneath the black flag, while no quarter was given beneath the red flag.
Many of you have asked for all the historical pirate flags to be available in the larger 3x5 foot size n' we have found a supplier who has them all in the larger size, however, they are made of polyester instead of nylon fabric.
They come in 4 style:
Large 3 x5 foot Pirate Flag single layered Polyester for $10 (viewable from both sides)
Large 3x5 foot Pirate Flag double sided Cotton Canvas battle flag $95 (limited supply).
Large 3 x 5 foot Pirate Flag single layered Nylon for $15 (limited supply)
Small 12 x 18 inch Pirate Flag, which are part of the String of Historical Pirate Flags.
