Pirates were known for their love of rum, and there were several reasons why they turned to this alcoholic beverage. One of the main reasons was to prevent diseases, especially scurvy. Scurvy is a disease caused by a deficiency of vitamin C, which was common among sailors at that time. The lack of fresh fruits and vegetables during long voyages made it difficult for sailors to get enough vitamin C in their diets. However, rum contains a small amount of vitamin C, which helped to prevent scurvy among pirates and other seafarers.
Another reason why pirates drank rum was its ability to ward off the flu. In those days, there were no vaccines or modern medicines to combat the flu virus. However, pirates believed that drinking rum could help prevent and treat the flu. While this belief may not have had a scientific basis, the alcohol in rum could have provided some temporary relief from symptoms and served as a form of self-medication.
Additionally, rum was believed to have stress-relieving properties. Life at sea was filled with dangers, hardships, and constant uncertainty. Pirates faced battles, storms, and the constant threat of capture or death. The consumption of rum provided a temporary escape from these stresses and helped to alleviate anxiety. It was a way for pirates to unwind and find solace amidst the challenging and often brutal conditions they faced.
Furthermore, rum was favored by pirates due to its affordability. It was relatively inexpensive compared to other alcoholic beverages available at the time. This made it accessible to pirates, who often lived on meager wages or relied on looting and plundering for their livelihood. Rum quickly became the drink of choice among pirates because it was readily available and didn’t put a strain on their already limited resources.
The popularity of rum among pirates grew rapidly, and it became an integral part of pirate culture. It was not only consumed for its practical benefits but also for its social aspects. Sharing a drink of rum with fellow pirates created a sense of camaraderie and solidarity within the pirate community. It became a symbol of their rebellious and adventurous lifestyle.
Pirates turned to rum for various reasons. It was believed to prevent diseases like scurvy and flu, relieve stress, and it was affordable for the often financially constrained pirates. The consumption of rum also played a significant role in fostering a sense of community and identity among pirates. Rum became intertwined with pirate culture, and its popularity among seafarers endured for centuries.