The Island of Tortuga

The Island of Tortuga

A map of the island of Tortuga, meaning “turtle” in Spanish, is an island off the northern coast of Haiti. An epicenter of maritime criminal activity in the Caribbean.

In the mid-1600s, Spain would invade Tortuga four times in an attempt to end the buccaneer threat. However, every time their soldiers would leave, the buccaneers would return, and build up the fortifications they previously left behind. The rocky island was protected by a strong fort and provided anchorage for the buccaneers between their raids on Spanish ships. It would go on to become the center of illicit activity and a common destination for pirates, privateers, and smugglers from all over.

17th Century

Public Domain

Map