The big steering wheel used on a pirate ship was called the helm. A traditional ship's helm was composed of eight cylindrical wooden spokes joined by a central, round hub, which was attached to the axel. It was often lined with a brass plate. The early wheels were hard to turn and often required two helmsmen to steer the ship.
This type of wheel was used on all ships of the period, not just the ones operated by pirates. There was no such thing as an actual pirate ship.That expression was used for any sea vessel whose crew engaged in piracy. Anything from a small boat to a huge frigate could be considered a pirate vessel. Pirates usually stole their ships.
When the first steering helm was invented, it was recognized as a major milestone in the evolution of sea travel and ship construction and revolutionized nautical navigation. The helm replaced the exceedingly inefficient whip staff, which was the previous method of steering. The first ship helm is believed to have been implemented at the beginning of the 18th century, approximately in 1703. Credit for the invention of the helm is attributed to the British navy, but there is no proper documentation to confirm or refute that.Learn More
Francisco Vázquez de Coronado was a Spanish conquistador, and is best remembered for leading a large expedition that was to be one of the largest European explorations of the North American interior. The expedition team of Coronado is also believed to be the first Europeans to discover the Grand Canyon and the Colorado River.Full Answer >
Henry Hudson made more than one sailing trip and was primarily trying to find a route to Asia but eventually ended up in the Americas instead. He made four main voyages in his lifetime: two to Asia, one to the New World and a fourth that took him to what is now known as Hudson Bay.Full Answer >
Conquistador Francisco Vázquez de Coronado was born to Juan Vázquez de Coronado and Isabel de Luján in Salamanca, Spain, in 1510. He was the second son born to the noble couple.Full Answer >
The Pilgrims were a group of approximately 100 people who in 1620 sailed on the Mayflower ship to North America, known then as the New World from England; they were seeking freedom from religious oppression. The party landed at present-day Cape Cod, Mass and created a settlement at Plymouth Harbor.Full Answer >