Captain Kidd (William Kidd)

William Kidd, known as Captain Kidd, was a Scottish sailor and privateer in the late 17th century. Originally authorized to hunt pirates for profit, he later became infamous after being accused of piracy himself. His ship was involved in alleged illegal activities, and he was captured and tried in England. Though some believed he was genuinely a pirate, others argue he was a victim of circumstance or injustice. His story highlights the blurry line between privateering (legal piracy authorized by governments) and outright piracy, making him a symbol of the uncertain morality of maritime warfare during his time.