Jack Rekhem Famous pirate of the early 18th century Date of Birth: 21.12.1682 Country: USA

1. Jack Rackham, also known as Calico Jack or Calico Jack Rackham
2. Early Life and Career
3. Return to Piracy and Infamy

Jack Rackham, also known as Calico Jack or Calico Jack Rackham

Jack Rackham, a notorious pirate at the beginning of the 18th century, was nicknamed Calico Jack or Calico Jack Rackham due to his fondness for trousers made of calico fabric, which was imported from Calcutta. There is a theory that he invented the pirate flag, known as the "Jolly Roger".

Early Life and Career

Jack Rackham was born on December 21, 1682, in London. Little is known about his origin. It is known only that his first fame came to Jack in 1718. Calico Jack was a typical small-time pirate, operating on small sloops along the coast.

From his youth, he engaged in petty piracy. According to some reports, Rackham lost two ships at the beginning of his pirate career. They were captured by a government patrol when almost the entire crew went ashore. Rackham was forced to return to New Providence and obtained amnesty from Governor Rogers in May 1719. However, law-abiding life on land proved unbearable for Rackham.

Return to Piracy and Infamy

In August 1719, Rackham seized a sloop, which he named "William", and returned to piracy. He gained notoriety for having two women disguised as men in his crew - Anne Bonny and Mary Read. The female pirates caused a sensation among the public. People were shocked to learn that both women had lived among men for years and behaved in a masculine manner, disregarding all the rules considered appropriate for women.

They had a stroke of luck until 1720 when Rackham's sloop encountered a ship belonging to the Governor of Jamaica. Most of the crew was drunk. Rackham, trying to escape, cut the anchor rope. However, the pursuing ship managed to catch up with him. After a brief battle, the pirate ship was boarded. Rackham was hanged on November 17, 1720, along with his entire crew in Port Royal, Jamaica.