Virtual Lecture – Pirates of the Chesapeake Bay: The American Revolution Pirates v. Privateers

The American Revolution is often viewed through an “us vs. them” lens in which the proud, patriotic American colonists rebelled against an oppressive and cruel king. And when we think about privateers during the American Revolution, we tend to imagine the thousands of individuals who volunteered their time, their money, their vessels, and their lives in support of the Continental Navy and the revolutionary cause. Certainly these privateers were an important component in the war. But not everyone in the colonies was on the side of revolution. These revolutionary Patriots contended not only with the Royal Navy, but they also had to deal with the Loyalists among them who also operated as privateers for the British. Admiral Howe’s 1777 invasion of the Chesapeake further fed Loyalist sentiment. And when British General Alexander Leslie arrived in the bay in Fall 1780, the presence of 2,500 soldiers and the Royal Navy was enough to renew the spirit of any faltering Loyalist picaroons. Of course, these men were considered pirates by the Patriots just as the actions of American privateers were considered piratical by the British. So what role did these two groups play in the Chesapeake Bay and how did it impact the outcome of the war?

Registration required.

Cost: $15 per household for General Admission; $10 per household for HA Members and Volunteers