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How England Used The Barbary Pirates To Enrich Themselves
You have to spend money to make money
The Barbary Pirates were a loose coalition of corsairs that hailed from the North African coastline. These pirates terrorized the Mediterranean for hundreds of years. In the 17th century, the Barbary Pirates sank, looted, or captured thousands of European vessels. The North African coastline was a vast territory with various ports and smuggling alcoves dotted along it. Every time a nation attempted to kill the pirates, three more sprang up to take their place. These pirates were ruthless, and they were highly efficient.
During a seven-year period in the early 17th century, England lost 466 ships. That is a rate of 66 ships a year or over one ship per week. Over time, it became apparent that if England could not beat the pirates, they would join them.
After losing hundreds of ships, England pivoted to a new tactic — pay the pirates.
Over the years, England built a relationship of trust between themselves and the Barbary Pirates. They paid tribute to the pirate lords, who in turn agreed to leave English ships alone. Ships flying under the British flag had a double layer of protection. Not only were they backed by the fearsome British navy, but they also had immunity from Muslim pirates.
