The Pittsburgh Pirates play in Major League Baseball as part of the National League Central Division. They got their famous nickname in 1891 after other team owners accused them of "pirating" a player away from another club during a contract dispute.

In pirate terminology, the act of a ship's crew taking over another ship is called boarding. This involved pirates pulling alongside a target vessel, throwing grappling hooks to bring the ships together, and then climbing or swinging across to the enemy ship to engage in combat and seize control. Pirates were notorious for their boarding tactics and carried specialized weapons such as cutlasses, pistols, and boarding axes designed for close-quarters combat during these raids. The goal of boarding was typically to capture the ship and its cargo, and sometimes to press captured sailors into the pirate crew.

During the 18th century, from around 1700 to 1730, the "Golden Age of Piracy" took place. This era saw a significant increase in piracy activities, particularly in the Caribbean and along the American coast. Notable pirates such as Blackbeard, Calico Jack, and Anne Bonny operated during this time, capturing the imagination of many and leaving a lasting legacy in popular culture. The 18th century was characterized by daring raids, battles at sea, and the pursuit of treasure, making it a defining period in the history of piracy.

Blackbeard, whose real name was Edward Teach, is famous for his black flag with a skull and crossbones. This iconic symbol became synonymous with piracy during the Golden Age of Piracy in the early 18th century. Blackbeard was known for his fearsome appearance, including a long black beard that he would light on fire during battle to intimidate his enemies. His reputation as a ruthless and brutal pirate further solidified his place in history as one of the most notorious pirates of all time.