Privateer
A private person or ship that engages in maritime warfare under a commission of war
Real World Example
A privateer was a privately-owned ship authorized by a government to attack enemy ships during wartime. During the late 18th and early 19th centuries, especially around the time the United States was establishing itself as a nation, privateers played a crucial role in naval warfare. They helped the fledgling U.S. navy by capturing enemy vessels, disrupting trade, and bringing in valuable goods. Privateers represented a mix of patriotism and profit, as they allowed individuals to support their country while potentially earning riches. Today, the spirit of privateering can be seen in entrepreneurship, where individuals take risks to support national interests, such as developing new technologies or businesses that can boost the economy and create jobs.
