A pirate flag is an iconic flag that usually represents terror or fear for those who see it. What is the history behind it? The origin is still unknown. It is a basic knowledge that the purpose of the flag is to instill fear to the enemies.

Pirate flag is known for its other name, Jolly Roger. Who is Jolly Roger and what is behind the name? Centuries ago the devil is called with many names and one of it is “Old Roger”. The pirates were known to be like rebels of the sea and since they create fear and terror they are associated to demons. The pirate flags are commonly seen to be black having the symbols of a classic skull and bones.  The symbol also implies the death of a sailor.  This flag is a vital part of a pirate’s ship as it is also considered as a weapon, an early form of psychological combat.

One of a popular pirate name is Bartholomew Roberts or better known as “Black Bart”. Within 4 years of his pirate life he conquered around 400 ships and acquired so much wealth from stealing. His ships conquered the sea for treasures and he instilled dread and fear from citizens.

When thinking about a pirate flag, what mostly comes into our minds is a black cloth with a picture of a skull with two crossed bones behind it. But this is not a standard design of a pirate flag. Though most flags consist of two crossed bones and a skull, some of them have other images such as hourglasses, swords, hearts, and goblets.