William Kidd, commonly known as Captain Kidd, was a Scottish sailor born in 1645. He initially started his career as a privateer, which meant he was authorized to attack enemy ships during wartime. However, he later turned to piracy, becoming infamous for his actions in the Indian Ocean and the Caribbean. Kidd was eventually captured and brought to trial in England. In 1701, Kidd was convicted of piracy and murder, leading to his execution in 1701. His story has become legendary, often associated with tales of buried treasure and adventure on the high seas. Kidd's life has inspired numerous books and films about pirates and treasure hunting.