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The Economic Impacts Of Privateer And Privateers During Times Of War

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A privateer is a private individual or vessel permitted by the government to attack foreign ships during times of war. This authorization was through a letter of marque. The government saw this as a way of increasing their wartime strength without having to commission warships into regular service. Throughout history, the distinction between privateers and pirates has been unclear. Due to the fact that their activities are largely similar, which include raiding and plundering ships, many disagree on what defines a privateer from a pirate. However, privateering was still used so often by various powers as it was able to help with the strengthening of military might, protection against pirates and bringing in revenue for the country and leader. …show more content…

It was an inlet for wealth as nations who were not dominant enough to establish their own Trans-Atlantic settlements could still plunder and loot the returning Spanish and Portuguese ships for their share of the pie. Privateering was also a way for powers to estimate how powerful their navies would be, even before a proper government run navy was commissioned. This was due to the fact that the majority of the firepower within the navies would come from privateers. This form of business also brought about great economic benefits as it not only acted as an instrument of war for weaker powers, it was also was a major source of income. The cash acquired from privateering would allow the weaker nations to improve their infrastructure, and in turn help their military to progress. However, the economic benefits were not only military based. It also provided nations with the spending power to fund global expeditions. One example is the discovery of South East Asian nations by the colonial powers. For Britain, well-known privateers like Sir Francis Drake brought in huge cash returns back to the queen, which enabled her to improve her navy, and fund future

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