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Zymen DansekerDutch privateer and corsair
Date of Birth: 01.01.1579
Country:  Netherlands |
Content:
- Simon de Danser and John Ward: Notorious Barbary Coast Buccaneers
- Embarking on Corsair Voyages
- Wealth and Renowned Infamy
- Return, Diplomacy, and Execution
Simon de Danser and John Ward: Notorious Barbary Coast Buccaneers
Simon de Danser: The Devil-CaptainDutch privateer and corsair Simon de Danser, along with English pirate John Ward, stands among the most notorious buccaneers who terrorized the Barbary Coast in the early 17th century. Originally from Dordrecht, Netherlands, Danser arrived in Algiers via Marseilles, France, around 1600. He wed and established a shipbuilding business there, eventually becoming the Dey's chief naval architect. With his expertise, he taught Algerian shipbuilders how to construct larger vessels based on European models, replacing their obsolete oar-powered galleys. He then incorporated captured European vessels into their designs and enlisted their officers to train Algerians in navigation and seafaring.
Embarking on Corsair Voyages
The exact circumstances of Danser's transition to piracy are unclear, but within three years of his arrival, he was sailing under the Jolly Roger, striking fear into Spanish vessels. His fleet grew rapidly, augmented by both captured ships and their crews. Notably, Danser became the first Algerian to venture beyond the Straits of Gibraltar, reaching Iceland, where he seized at least 40 vessels, many of which he later scuttled. The Turks famously dubbed him Dali-Capitan, or Devil-Captain.
Wealth and Renowned Infamy
Within three years of piracy, Danser amassed significant wealth and indulged in an ostentatious lifestyle. Known for attacking indiscriminately, he terrorized multiple nations, provoking attempts at retaliation and enticing others to recruit him. He forged alliances with fellow corsairs Peter Easton and Jack Ward, forming a formidable coalition. His fleet faced a near-disaster at the hands of French and Spanish forces, but a storm serendipitously intervened.
Return, Diplomacy, and Execution
In 1609, Danser secured a pardon from French authorities and sailed for France, arriving in Marseilles with four well-equipped ships on November 17. He resided in the city for a time before accepting a diplomatic mission to facilitate French shipping in Algiers. However, upon his arrival on Algerian soil, he was promptly apprehended and executed, his head severed for the damage he had inflicted upon Muslim vessels.
