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Privateers, which are private ships used for attacking foreign ships under the approval of the country’s government were a part of learn to speak Spanish history. Although these ships were primarily used during times of war, some were also used for showing a position of power in times of peace.

learn Spanish privateers were commonly seen in support of the navy, starting in the 16th century through the 19th century. To pay for the cost of privateers, prize money coming from enemy merchants was paid. Interestingly, if war was not occurring or if the privateer were to prey on neutral ships, they were often viewed as pirates. However, when working in conjunction to naval forces, privateers played a vital role in attacking enemy ships, as well as taking on prisoners of war.

As you can imagine, privateers were a huge support to smaller naval power. Additionally, these smaller ships caused significant problems for commerce, which obviously hurt the enemy. Depending on the ship and its crew, some were treated with great respect by naval vessels while others were treated rudely and with disrespect.

Now, a privateer could be literally any type of vessel. In fact, many privateers were outdated or unwanted warships that were commissioned to go into service. As you look back in history, you will find that many of the English privateer fleet that fought with the 1588 learn Spanish online Armada. During this era, it was common for British ships to sail off the Spanish coast, as well as the Caribbean. Their goal was to intercept treasure fleets carrying silver and gold coming from Mexico, which actually belonged to Spain.

At first, some attacks by Spanish ships on Sir John Hawkins and Sir Francis Drake were justified in that they were trying to stop the selling of slaves to Spanish colonies, something that the Spanish considered against the law. Initially, naval support was not available so little control or monitoring was done. In fact, Elizabeth I encouraged privateering, believing that it was okay to attack Spanish ships due to competition with that country. This action was directly responsible for starting the first Anglo-Spanish War. After all, if a Spanish treasure ship was captured, it meant the British Crown would become richer

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