Privateers President James Madison attempted to overcome the problem of the small size of the U.S. Navy by issuing Letters of Marque and Reprisal to private ship owners. This document authorized its holder to arm his vessel and act as a privateer, or legal pirate, representing the United States. Privateers were allowed to attack the British merchant fleet, and take captured cargo and vessels as prizes. How would you like to be a pirate... a legal pirate?

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