Corsairs, Not Pirates - The True Tales of Malta's Maritime History with Liam Gauci

History Rage

Prepare to have your nautical myths shattered in this swashbuckling episode of History Rage! Host Paul Bavill is joined by Liam Gauci, historian and curator of the Malta Maritime Museum, to delve into the murky waters of piracy and privateering in the Mediterranean.

The Corsair Conundrum:

- Liam passionately dismantles the common misconception that corsairs were simply pirates, clarifying the significant legal distinctions that separated privateers and corsairs from their pirate counterparts.

- Discover the intricate international maritime laws that governed corsair activities, turning them into prisoners of war rather than criminals destined for the gallows.

Malta: The Corsair Haven:

- Explore how Malta's strategic location made it a bustling hub for privateers from all over Europe, including British, French, Russian, and Spanish corsairs.

- Learn about the economic and social impact of corsairing on the island, from the service industry to the grand investments that fuelled these maritime ventures.

Tales of the High Seas:

- Liam shares riveting stories of famous Maltese corsairs, like Guglielmo Lorenzi, whose daring exploits earned him a gold medal and a legendary status.

- Hear about the remarkable characters who navigated the fine line between legality and piracy, including magicians, dandy captains, and those who switched allegiances with the changing tides of war.

The End of an Era:

- Understand how the Crimean War and subsequent treaties brought an end to privateering, reshaping Malta's economy and its role in global maritime history.

Join us as Liam Gauci unleashes his rage against historical inaccuracies, advocating for a nuanced understanding of corsairs and their lawful plundering. To dive deeper into this fascinating subject, visit the Malta Maritime Museum at www.maltamaritimemuseum.mt and follow Liam on Twitter @liamgauci13.

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