The Active privateer passing Tilbury.

The Active privateer passing Tilbury. © National Maritime Museum, London

Description: Privateers were ships authorised by the government of one nation to attack and capture the vessels of opposing countries. They were licensed pirates. Privateering stopped vital cargoes of food and supplies reaching enemy ports. The captured ships could also be used as fighting ships.

Creator: Haines & Son (publishers)

Date: 19 March 1796