Anne Bonny and Mary Read: real-life pirates of the Caribbean
Summary
Greg Jenner is joined by historian Hannah Cusworth and comedian Kima Bob to explore the lives of 18th-century pirates Anne Bonny and Mary Read. They discuss the women’s controversial backgrounds, their disguises as men, and their roles on Calico Jack’s crew. The episode also examines the social dynamics of pirate ships, including egalitarian codes and potential queer relationships, while contextualizing their exploits within the brutal realities of Caribbean slavery and empire.
Topics discussed
Introduction and guest Kima Kropinski
Pirates of the Caribbean and initial knowledge check
Anne Bonny's early life and disguise
Mary Read's origins and life as Mark
The Caribbean context and slavery
The Golden Age of Piracy and Jack Rackham
Life on the pirate ship and gender roles
Pirate codes and social structure
Queer history and Anne and Mary's relationship
The capture and trial of the pirates
Pregnancy pleas and tragic endings
Legacy, rebellion, and historical context
Quiz, wrap-up, and recommendations
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