Pirates have long been romanticized throughout history as fearless rebels who plunder ships and defy authority in their pursuit of fortune and freedom. But beyond the treasure maps and cannon fire, there existed a lesser-known aspect of pirate culture: matelotage. In the confined and lawless world of pirate ships, same-sex unions became a recognized and respected practice that formed the foundation of many buccaneers’ lives.
While some matelotage relationships were purely economic to ensure that a pirate’s wealth passed to a trusted partner, others mirrored deep fraternal bonds or even marriages. From legendary captains to young recruits, these partnerships shaped the lives and legacies of many pirates. But what exactly did such a union entail? Click through this gallery to find out.