Pirate history primarily spans the late 16th to early 18th centuries, a period known as the "Golden Age of Piracy." During this time, pirates like Blackbeard and Bartholomew Roberts roamed the seas, targeting merchant ships for their valuable cargo. Many pirates were former sailors or privateers who turned to piracy due to economic hardship or the lure of adventure. Pirates operated mainly in the Caribbean Sea, but their activities extended to the American colonies, West Africa, and the Indian Ocean. They often formed loose alliances and followed a code of conduct, which included rules about sharing loot and treating crew members fairly. Despite their notorious reputation, some pirates played significant roles in maritime history and trade.