Marooning

By Crusader1307

The practice of Marooning was used as a Punishment (and Execution), by Pirate Captain and Crews. It could be used to punish a Crewman for anything from Theft, to Lying, to violation of his Oath to The Pirate Code. Mutiny (or the attempt to take over a Ship by force), was also a common punishment that involved Marooning. In practice, the Offender would be taken to a deserted island, atoll or even a sandbar. He would be given a jug of rum. Often, his weapons would be taken as well. In later periods, the violator would be left a single knife. In most cases, the Violator would die of starvation or from exposure. In cases of being marooned on a sandbar – they would eventually drown (when the tide rose). In some cases, the person was rescued (by a passing ship). However, in most cases, the Violator would be identified as a “punished Pirate” - and would be delivered to a Royal Government (and death). In other cases, the passing ship may be Pirate. They might pick up the Offender and offer them a position. Most often, these ships (recognizing the Marooning) – would pass by.