Explain why did pirates raise the black flag?

To instill fear in their opponents.

The iconic black flag, often adorned with a skull or an hourglass, was called the Jolly Roger. Once it was raised, it clearly signaled the intent: pirates were not there to joke around, but to sow terror. The goal was clear, to instill a blue fear in their opponents by directly confronting them with the possibility of imminent and brutal death. It also served as a psychological pressure tactic to convince other ships to surrender without even daring to resist. Some very famous pirate captains, like Blackbeard, amplified this effect by lighting smoking fuses around their heads, fully playing on their frightening image. The result was guaranteed: the mere sight of the flag was sometimes enough to break the will of enemies.

To show their determination to fight relentlessly.

When pirates raised the black flag, it was their way of clearly signaling that they were ready to fight to the death, without mercy or quarter. This flag, often adorned with a skull or crossed swords, meant: we are not joking, we are attacking seriously, and no one will be spared. Seeing this banner therefore meant a fight to the death, as the pirates openly declared that they would take no prisoners. Raising the black flag was a radical but highly effective method to demonstrate their determination to fight without hesitation and to make the enemy think twice before engaging in battle.

To force enemy ships to surrender without resistance.

When pirates raised their famous black flag, their goal was to create immediate tension among their opponents. Instead of engaging in direct battle, this strategy aimed to provoke a psychological shock: frightened by the sudden appearance of this flag synonymous with potential carnage, many enemy sailors preferred to strike their colors to avoid direct confrontation. They knew well that resisting the pirates often meant risking death or severe injury, so a quick surrender seemed more reasonable. Ultimately, merely waving the black flag allowed pirates to save ammunition and energy while easily seizing an intact bounty.

To strengthen the identity and cohesion of the crew.

The black flag, known as the Jolly Roger, was a true unifying symbol for pirates. Each crew tended to adapt its flag with specific motifs (skulls, crossed swords, hourglass) to stand out and reinforce their sense of belonging. Seeing their own emblem fly at the top of the mast helped pirates feel connected, as a close-knit group sharing the same values and goals. Choosing, creating, and waving their own colors increased solidarity among them and fostered a strong team spirit. In other words, under the black flag, all became brothers in arms, ready to risk their lives together for adventure, plunder, and freedom at sea.

To take advantage of the pirate myth and legend.

Pirates knew perfectly well that their reputation worked in their favor: tales of their cruelty and bravery were already widely circulated. By raising a black flag, they directly fed into the terrifying myth that became famous in maritime legends. Many victims preferred to surrender immediately out of fear, already convinced by these stories. The pirates thus cleverly utilized the psychological power of their image, making their attacks easier without necessarily having to fight, which was obviously ideal for them.