16/09/2024

Pirate facts kids will love!

Ahoy there, matey! It’s International ‘Talk Like A Pirate Day’ 19th September so get your best pirate jokes out and stick on an eye patch for a swashbuckling day! We’ve got a couple of good ones to get you started.

Why are Pirates called pirates?

Because they ARGGGHHHHHH!

What did the sea say to the pirate?

Nothing! It just waved!

12 fun pirate facts

• Pirates of the sea: Pirates were daring sailors (usually criminals of the sea) who roamed the seas in search of treasure and adventure. Real pirates used ships that were small and swift, like sloops and schooners. They could attack much larger, better-armed ships. Armed with swords and pistols, they went aboard the other ship to steal their cargo.
• Women pirates: Women were not allowed on board pirate ships. However, there were some women pirates. They disguised themselves as men to join pirate crews.
• Onboard the ship: Most pirate ships had a carpenter, cook, doctor, and navigator onboard.
• Jolly Roger: Pirates had a famous flag called the Jolly Roger. It had skull and crossbones on it, which meant they were ready for a fight. They'd raise the flag high to show their pirate spirit.
• Treasure hunt: Pirates loved treasure, and they buried it on secret islands. They made treasure maps with X marks to find their loot. X marked the spot, where "X" stood for treasure! Why not try making your own treasure map?
• Pirate talk: Pirates had their own way of talking. They'd say "Ahoy!" for hello, "Avast!" to mean stop, and "Matey" for friend. They'd often end sentences with "Arr!" like, "Shiver me timbers, that be a big wave, arr!"
• Peg legs and eye patches: Some pirates had wooden legs called peg legs because of injuries. Others wore eye patches, not just for style, but to keep one eye adjusted to darkness below deck. How about making your own Pirate fancy dress?
• Parrots and pirates: Pirates were often seen with parrots on their shoulders. These colourful birds were great companions and helped pirates feel less lonely on long voyages.
• Pirate Code: Pirates had rules they followed called the Pirate Code. They agreed to share treasure fairly and treat each other with respect (most of the time).
• Cannon battles: Pirates used big cannons on their ships to fight other ships. They'd load cannonballs and gunpowder, then light the fuse to shoot at enemies. Boom!
• Sailing the high seas: Pirates sailed all over the world, searching for hidden coves, remote islands, and secret hideouts. They were true adventurers of the open seas!
• Walking the plank: While it's a popular image, there's little historical evidence to support the idea that pirates made their victims walk the plank. However, it makes for exciting pirate stories!

Famous Pirates

Blackbeard, Captain Kidd, and Anne Bonny were famous pirates known for their swashbuckling adventures and daring escapes. Find out more about famous pirates and watch Horrible Histories Putrid Pirates.

If you're looking for some fun Pirate themed games and activities check these out – lots of fun to be had matey!

So there ye have it, a taste of pirate life for ye young buccaneers. But remember, always be kind, and never forget – it's not the treasure that makes a pirate great, but the courage and camaraderie on the journey!