Orginally published : Edinburgh : Hodge, l930.

In Piracy and the Origins of Universal Jurisdiction, Mark Chadwick relates a colourful account of how and why piracy on the high seas came to be considered an international crime subject to the principle of universal jurisdiction, prosecutable by any State in any circumstances.

Based on official admiralty records, this volume offers an astonishing glimpse into the world of 17th-century piracy, the English judicial system, and the dialogue from the actual trial.

A difficult mission, a mutinous crew, treacherous waters, and merchant ships bearing cargoes of gold, silk, diamonds and rubies...all awaited Captain William Kidd as he found himself caught up in the doomed voyage of the Adventure Galley. But did this well-respected seaman, familiar to New Yorkers and Londoners alike as a prosperous, honest and experienced skipper, understand exactly what he was to do? After being chosen by King William's representative to undertake this secret expedition, Captain Kidd meticulously prepared to sail around the Cape of Good Hope never dreaming of the fate awaiting him upon his return. Adventure abounds in this book complete with intrigue, pirates, unruly sailors, treasure hunting and double-crossing government officials. Carefully researched, this dramatically recounted story of a ship captain and his mysterious voyage will keep readers captivated to the very end. 137 pages with 11 black and white drawings by H.B Vestal and a two-page map of Kidd's voyage.