![]() In addition to this, the Boatswain directed all deck activities, including handling the sails, weighting, rigging, lines, yards, and anchors. His primary responsibility was to ensure the ship was maintained, a task that required absolute expertise, and it was precisely the care, love, and attachment to one's ship that made the Boatswain one of the reliable elements of a crew. Usually, the Master Boatswain was the sailor with the most experience on board and reported directly to the Quartermaster and Captain. Therefore, he was in charge of organizing the crew's plans and actions when attacking a merchant ship or fighting, if necessary, against another crew. He also took care of the crew's internal management, making sure that each of them performed their duties to the best of their abilities. He was the foremost expert in the art of combat and war strategy. Together with the Quartermaster, the Master at Arms was the Captain's closest collaborator and most trusted man. He also had to lead the attack when boarding a ship and usually assumed command of captured boats. Unlike Royal Naval vessels, where the Boatswain would maintain discipline and handle the crew's punishment, this was the Quartermaster's responsibility. The Quartermaster's role was also a sort of magistrate. And like the Captain, the Quartermaster was usually elected by their crews. The Quartermaster was almost the Captain's equal except while chasing a prize or during a battle. The Captain's authority was further limited by the powers conferred on the Quartermaster. Unlike traditional naval and merchant ships, pirates usually chose their Captain through a majority election and, in the same way, could be disposed of from his post through a new vote. But the role was subject to the wishes of the crew. He gave the orders and was expected to make the most critical decisions, including how to engage a target, pursue prey, escape the authorities, and deal with an attack. The Captain was the highest in command of a single ship and required the skills to be a good tactician and decision-maker. So unlike Royal Navy vessels, pirates limited the Captain's power who would have absolute authority in battle otherwise, it was ruled by the majority pirate council, almost a sort of "democracy." The responsibilities may have varied from ship to ship, but common principles inspired this list of pirate ranks and are presented in the order of the shares they received. But even pirate ships needed a Captain and officers. The ultimate authority on a pirate ship was the "pirate council," which included every man on the ship.
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