Pirate Flags from Around the World

Piracy has always been an alluring and captivating subject. Throughout history, pirates have captured our imaginations as fearsome outlaws of the sea with their unique flags representing their lawless lifestyles. These flags were not only used to identify the pirate ships but also sent a message of terror to those who dared to cross their path. But what do these skull and crossbones actually signify, and what other symbols have been used by notorious buccaneers? In this article, we will explore the fascinating world of pirate flags, their designs, and meanings, encompassing different parts of the world from the Caribbean to Asia, Europe, and South America. So let’s dive into the world of pirate flags and uncover the stories behind them.

History of Pirate Flags

Pirate flags have a long and varied history, with many different designs and meanings. The origins of pirate flags can be traced back to the early days of piracy, when pirates would use any means necessary to intimidate their victims. The most recognizable pirate flag, the Jolly Roger, first appeared in the early 18th century. The designs of pirate flags evolved over time, with many famous pirate captains having their own unique flag. Some of the most famous pirate flags include Blackbeard’s flag, Calico Jack’s flag, and Anne Bonny’s flag. Each of these flags had a unique design and meaning, often featuring symbols like skulls, swords, and hourglasses. To learn more about the history of pirate flags and the meaning behind some of the most famous designs, check out some of the informative articles linked above.

Origins of Pirate Flags

The origins of pirate flags can be traced back as early as the 1700s. Pirates needed to differentiate themselves from other ships while they were attacking, which explains why pirates traditionally flew black flags. The most famous pirate flag was known as the Jolly Roger flag, which featured a white skull and crossbones on a black background.

One theory about the origins of this design is that it was inspired by the red and black flag of the Knights Templar, an order of warrior monks during the Crusades. The skull and crossbones were added to the design to strike fear into the hearts of the pirates’ victims. Another theory suggests that the Jolly Roger was a combination of the French words “joli rouge,” which means “pretty red,” and referred to a red flag flown by a ship that intended to fight to the death.

Regardless of its origins, the Jolly Roger became a popular symbol among pirates and it inspired many other pirate flag designs. Some of the most famous pirate flags include the red and black flag of Henry Every, which featured a red background with a skull and crossbones and an hourglass in the center, symbolizing that time was running out for the pirates’ victims. Blackbeard’s flag was also very popular among pirates and featured a skeleton holding an hourglass and spear.

Another popular design was Calico Jack’s flag, which had a white skull and crossed swords on a black background. This flag was used by the infamous pirate Anne Bonny, who sailed with Calico Jack and helped him capture many ships. In fact, Anne Bonny is one of the few female pirates whose flag is still preserved today.

The origins of pirate flags are rooted in the need for pirates to differentiate themselves while attacking ships. The Jolly Roger flag, with its striking design of a skull and crossbones on a black background, became a popular symbol among pirates and inspired many other designs. Some of the most famous pirate flags were used by notorious pirate captains such as Blackbeard, Calico Jack, and Henry Every. To learn more about their flags and the stories behind them, check out some of the links below:

– Learn about the stories behind Blackbeard’s flag on /blackbeards-flag-story/
– Discover the flags of famous female pirates on /famous-female-pirates-flags/
– Read about the meaning of the Jolly Roger flag on /jolly-roger-flag-meaning/
– Find out more about Calico Jack’s flag on /flag-of-calico-jack/
– Explore the flags of famous pirate ships on /famous-pirate-ships-flags/

Evolution of Designs

The earliest pirate flags were simple in design, typically featuring a skull or skeleton on a black background. However, as pirate culture evolved, so did their flag designs. Pirates started to use their flags as symbols of intimidation and to send a message to their potential victims. Some pirate flags were designed to strike fear into their enemies, while others were created to mock the authority of the countries they were attacking.

One example of a mock flag design is that of Henry Every, also known as the “King of Pirates”. His flag featured an image of himself standing with a sword in each hand, with a flag in the background that read “A Parley” in bold letters. This flag was used to convince his victims that he was willing to negotiate, but in reality, he had no intention of doing so.

As pirate culture spread across the world, new designs emerged in different regions. For example, the pirate flag of Ching Shih, a notorious female pirate who operated in the South China Sea, featured a red background with a golden Swallow tail, which was a symbol of good luck and prosperity in Chinese culture.

Another example is the flag of Captain Kidd, which featured a design of crossed swords below a skull and crossbones. The crossed swords were a symbol of the captain’s military background, as he had previously served as a privateer for the British government.

Pirate flag designs evolved as pirates became more strategic and creative in their use of intimidation and symbolism. Today, many of these designs are still recognized and used in popular culture to represent piracy and rebellion. To learn more about specific pirate flags and their meanings, check out our article on /10-notorious-pirate-captains-flags/.

Pirate Flags from the Caribbean

Pirate flags from the Caribbean were some of the most terrifying in history. Blackbeard’s flag, with its image of a horned skeleton holding a spear, struck fear into the hearts of his enemies. Calico Jack’s flag featured a skull with two crossed swords, while Anne Bonny’s flag was set apart with its depiction of a woman stabbing a heart with a dagger. Each flag had its own unique meaning and helped pirates communicate with other ships from a distance. It was important for pirates to recognize each other because they often worked together in raids and battles. To learn about the meaning behind these flags and other common pirate symbols, check out the section on Meanings Behind Pirate Flags below.

Blackbeard’s Flag

Blackbeard, also known as Edward Teach, is undoubtedly the most famous pirate of all time. His flag was just as iconic as his name, depicting a skeleton with an hourglass in one hand and a spear piercing a heart in the other. This flag was unique in that it didn’t adhere to the traditional black background favored by most pirates; instead, it had a red background, adding to its menacing appearance.

The symbolism behind Blackbeard’s flag is twofold. The skeleton holding an hourglass represented the inevitability of death, reminding his enemies that their time was up. The spear piercing the heart was a declaration of war, indicating that Blackbeard and his crew would show no mercy.

Interestingly, there is a debate over whether Blackbeard actually flew this flag himself, or if it was later attributed to him by legends and pop culture. Some historians argue that the flag was only associated with Blackbeard after his death, while others believe there is evidence to support its use during his lifetime.

Regardless of its origins, Blackbeard’s flag remains one of the most recognizable symbols of piracy to this day. Its striking design has been used in movies and TV shows, cementing its place in popular culture.

Calico Jack’s Flag

Calico Jack’s flag is one of the most recognizable pirate flags in history. It features a skull with crossed swords, known as “Jolly Roger,” on a background of crossed calico pieces. Calico Jack was not known for his successful piracy, but he gained notoriety due to his association with two famous female pirates, Anne Bonny and Mary Read. The flag was designed by either Calico Jack or one of his crew members, but its meaning remains unknown.

Despite its lack of significance, the Calico Jack flag has become a favorite among modern pirate enthusiasts. It is often seen in movies and TV shows and is a popular choice for pirate-themed costumes and merchandise. Calico Jack’s flag is also a reminder of the Golden Age of Piracy, when flags like this one flew on the high seas, striking fear into the hearts of sailors and merchants alike.

Calico Jack’s flag was not the only one he used during his brief career as a pirate. Legend has it that he also flew a skull and crossbones flag with an hourglass beneath it, symbolizing that time was running out for his victims. However, this flag is less well known than his famous Jolly Roger.

The Calico Jack flag may not have had a clear meaning, but it has certainly become a symbol of piracy and adventure. Its use by Calico Jack and his crew was a testament to their rebellious spirit and love of freedom on the high seas. Today, it continues to be a popular image of the pirate’s life and an example of the enduring legacy of piracy in popular culture.

Anne Bonny’s Flag

Anne Bonny’s flag was similar to that of Calico Jack, featuring a skull with crossed cutlasses on a black background. The major difference was that instead of two crossed sabers behind the skull, there was an hourglass. The hourglass symbolized the importance of time and how quickly it passed, reminding the crew that their time as pirates was limited and they needed to achieve their goals swiftly.

Anne Bonny was an unconventional pirate as she was a woman among the mostly male-dominated profession. She was known for her fiery personality and battled alongside the crew during raids. Her flag represented her daredevil attitude as the hourglass warned the authorities of their limited time to capture her.

Pirates often used their flags to intimidate their enemies, and Anne Bonny’s was no exception. The skull and crossbones represented death, while the crossed cutlasses symbolized the pirates’ readiness to fight. Although Anne Bonny’s flag was not unique, it had a personal touch that represented her daring and time-conscious personality.

Today, Anne Bonny’s flag is a symbol of feminism and empowerment as she broke gender barriers, proving that women can be as daring and fierce as men. Her legacy lives on as she remains an inspiration for many, and her flag serves as a reminder of her courage and strength during the Golden Age of Piracy.

Pirate Flags from Asia

Pirate flags from Asia were known for their bold designs and vibrant colors, often featuring fierce dragons and other mythical creatures. One of the most notable pirate flags was that of Ching Shih, who terrorized the waters of China during the early 19th century. Her flag depicted a red background with a yellow dragon in the center, symbolizing power and strength. Another notable pirate from Asia was Hayreddin Barbarossa, who flew a black flag adorned with a white skull and crossbones, similar to those used by pirates from other regions. The use of symbolic imagery on pirate flags was often intended to strike fear into the hearts of potential victims and signal a willingness to engage in battle.

Ching Shih’s Flag

Ching Shih was a female pirate from China who commanded the Red Flag Fleet, one of the biggest pirate fleets in history in the early 19th century. Her flag was one of the most unique and unconventional pirate flags ever designed. The flag was a red banner with a golden swallow-tailed rectangle in the center, known as the “Nine Units of the Law” flag. The flag was divided into nine parts, representing the eight provinces of China and the pirate lords governing them. Each part featured a Chinese character that represented one of the laws of the Red Flag Fleet. The laws ensured good discipline, fair division of loot, and protected the women captives from abuse.

This flag was unlike any other pirate flag as it did not have any skull and crossbones symbol or other recognizable pirate iconography. Instead, it represented order and control, which were crucial for Ching Shih’s success in commanding such a large pirate fleet. The design was meant to intimidate other ships and instill fear in other pirates as Ching Shih and the Red Flag Fleet dominated the seas of Southeast Asia.

Ching Shih’s flag was a representation of power and discipline, which were the main values of the Red Flag Fleet. As a successful pirate, Ching Shih and her crew followed a strict set of guidelines known as the Pirate Code or the Articles of Agreement, which established the rules by which the pirates would live and work together.

Today, Ching Shih’s flag is remembered as a testament to her leadership and her ability to create an organized and successful pirate fleet. Despite her unconventional flag design, Ching Shih remains one of the most feared pirates in history.

Hayreddin Barbarossa’s Flag

Hayreddin Barbarossa was a notorious pirate who operated in the Mediterranean Sea during the 16th century. His flag has been described as one of the most visually striking and frightening pirate flags in history.

The flag was black with a white skull on it, and below the skull were two crossed scimitars, which were curved swords commonly used in the Middle East. The scimitars represented Barbarossa’s Turkish heritage.

Barbarossa’s flag was a symbol of terror for those who saw it, as he and his fleet were known for their brutal raids on both European and African ships and coastlines. The flag was also a symbol of Barbarossa’s power and influence, as he went on to become the admiral of the Ottoman navy and played a significant role in the Mediterranean politics of his day.

In the modern era, Hayreddin Barbarossa’s flag is still recognized as a symbol of fierce piracy and seafaring adventure. It has been used in various forms of popular media, including movies, video games, and literature, and has been incorporated into the logos and imagery of companies associated with adventure and exploration.

The flag of Hayreddin Barbarossa is a memorable and iconic symbol of the pirate world, and stands as a testament to the enduring fascination that people have with the daring and danger of piracy on the high seas.

Pirate Flags from Europe

One of the most notorious pirates from Europe was Samuel Bellamy, also known as the “Prince of Pirates”. He flew a unique black flag with the image of a white skeleton holding an hourglass in one hand and a spear in the other. The flag also featured a red heart and the letters “AB” which stood for “Aimer Belle” or “Beautiful Lover” in French. Another pirate from Europe was Stede Bonnet, who sailed with a flag that portrayed a skull with a sword in one hand and a burning heart in the other. Lastly, Bartholomew Roberts used a black flag with the image of a pirate standing atop two skulls, one with an hourglass and the other with a knife beneath them. Each flag had its own symbolism and meaning, and they strike fear into the hearts of those who saw them.

Samuel Bellamy’s Flag

Samuel Bellamy, also known as “Black Sam,” was a notorious pirate who terrorized the coast of New England in the early 18th century. His flag featured a white skeleton holding an hourglass in one hand and a spear in the other, with the motto “Our Time is Short” written on a banner below.

This design was likely meant to convey the message that Bellamy and his crew were merciless and that their victims were running out of time. The hourglass symbolized the inevitability of death, while the spear represented the pirates’ deadly power.

Despite his short career as a pirate, Bellamy’s flag has become one of the most iconic and recognizable pirate flags in history. In fact, it is said that the skull and crossbones design often associated with pirates today may have actually originated from Bellamy’s flag.

Although Bellamy was only active for about a year before his death, his legacy as a notorious pirate and the enduring popularity of his flag have ensured his place in pirate lore.

Stede Bonnet’s Flag

Stede Bonnet was a wealthy Barbadian landowner who became a pirate later in his life. He did not have any experience with the sea but still managed to outfit his own ship and crew. His flag was distinctive with a white skull wearing a red bonnet on a black background. The flag also featured crossed sabers beneath the skull. The flag was simple yet eye-catching. Stede Bonnet’s flag was a representation of his nickname “The Gentleman Pirate,” as he was a wealthy landowner who dressed and acted as a gentleman while committing piracy. However, his flag also indicated his ruthlessness, as the presence of the skull and crossed sabers implied that his enemies would be killed without mercy.

Bartholomew Roberts’ Flag

Bartholomew Roberts, also known as Black Bart, was one of the most successful pirates of the Golden Age of Piracy. He captured more than 400 ships during his career and ruled the seas for almost three years. His flag was a simple design featuring a skeleton holding an hourglass in one hand and a spear in the other.

The skeleton symbolized death, while the hourglass represented the fleeting nature of life. The spear was considered a phallic symbol and represented the pirates’ willingness to fight and defend themselves.

In addition to the skeleton, the flag also featured four red hearts to represent Roberts’ affection for his many lovers. The four hearts were arranged in a diamond shape, with two pointing upwards and two pointing downwards.

Roberts’ flag was very popular among his crew and inspired fear among his enemies. It is said that when a ship saw Roberts’ flag, they knew that they were in for a fight. Despite his success, Roberts’ reign as a pirate was ended when he was killed in battle by the Royal Navy.

Interestingly, Roberts’ flag is sometimes confused with that of Captain Kidd, which also featured a skeleton but with a sword instead of a spear. It is also similar to the flag of Henry Every, who was known as the “King of Pirates” and used a flag with a similar design. However, Roberts’ flag remains one of the most iconic pirate flags of all time.

Pirate Flags from South America

The pirates of South America had their own unique flags with intriguing meanings. Edward Low’s flag featured “a red skeleton holding an hourglass in one hand and a spear in the other,” symbolizing the fleeting nature of life and the inevitability of death in battle. Roque Braziliano’s flag boasted an image of himself with a sword in hand, alongside the motto “Surrender to me or die.” This bold statement warned potential victims of the consequences of resisting him. These flags not only displayed the pirates’ identities and reputations but also instilled fear and intimidation in those who saw them. The use of bold colors, strong images, and clear messages was vital in the creation of effective and memorable pirate flags in South America.

Edward Low’s Flag

Edward Low was a notorious pirate who operated in the Caribbean and Atlantic waters during the early 18th century. He was infamous for his cruelty towards his victims and his own crew members alike. His flag reflected his reputation as a ruthless pirate.

Edward Low’s flag had a dark background, with a striking red skeleton depicted in the center. The skeleton held an hourglass in one hand, symbolizing the inevitability of death, while the other hand pointed towards a heart. The heart was pierced by three swords, representing the three main enemies of a pirate – the navy, merchants, and humanity in general.

Interestingly, the Edward Low flag also had a portrayal of a naked man and a woman on either side of the skeleton. This scene has been interpreted in various ways, but some believe that it represented the ultimate fate of the pirate’s victims.

The Edward Low flag was designed with the intention of striking fear into the hearts of anyone who saw it. It was a clear warning to potential victims of the brutal and inhumane treatment they could expect at the hands of Low and his crew.

Edward Low’s flag stands as a stark reminder of the dark and violent history of piracy. The symbolism used in the design of his flag serves as a testament to the fearsome reputation that Low had built for himself as one of the most savage and unforgiving pirates of his time.

Roque Braziliano’s Flag

Roque Braziliano, also known as “Rock the Brazilian,” was a feared pirate who operated in the Caribbean during the 17th century. His pirate flag was a black rectangular banner with a white hourglass symbol in the center. This symbol represented the early modern symbol of mortality, which was a reminder to Braziliano’s enemies that death was imminent. The hourglass was often associated with the Grim Reaper, as it was a common symbol on gravestones during this time period.

Other symbols on Braziliano’s flag included a pair of crossed bones located in the upper left and right corners of the flag and a set of crossed pistols in the center of the hourglass. The crossed bones represented death and danger, while the crossed pistols were a symbol of Braziliano’s piracy and fighting skills.

Interestingly, Braziliano was not originally from Brazil. He was actually born in Holland and was of Dutch and Jewish descent. He became a sailor at a young age and eventually made his way to the Caribbean, where he began his pirate career. Braziliano was known for his daring attacks on Spanish ships, which he carried out with ruthless efficiency.

While Braziliano’s flag may not be as well-known as some of the other pirate flags of the era, it was still a symbol of fear and intimidation to those who saw it flying. Braziliano himself was known for his brutality and was rumored to have killed his own crew members on occasion when they disobeyed him. Despite his ruthless reputation, however, Braziliano remains a fascinating figure in pirate history and his flag is a lasting reminder of his legacy.

Meanings Behind Pirate Flags

Pirate flags were a symbol of terror for sailors in the Golden Age of Piracy. One of the most common symbols used on these flags was the skull and crossbones. This symbol, called the Jolly Roger, was meant to send a clear message to the crew of the targeted ship: surrender or face gruesome consequences. In addition to the skull and crossbones, pirate flags also often featured other symbols such as cutlasses, pistols, hearts, and hourglasses. Each symbol had its own unique meaning, and its own way of striking fear into the hearts of their prey. The meanings behind these pirate flags remain fascinating to this day, offering a glimpse into the world of piracy and the tactics used by these legendary figures on the high seas.

Symbolism of Skull and Crossbones

The skull and crossbones design on pirate flags has become synonymous with piracy itself, but what does it actually symbolize? Many historians suggest that this design was a warning to potential victims, signaling that the attacking vessel would show no mercy. However, the symbolism of the skull and crossbones goes beyond just a warning of imminent danger.

Historical Symbolism
The use of the skull as a symbol dates back to ancient times, where it often represented death and resurrection. The crossbones were added later as a reminder of mortality. The combination of these symbols on pirate flags was likely intended to instill fear in those who saw them. It was a reminder of the pirates’ willingness to kill without mercy and showed that they were a force to be reckoned with.

Current Symbols of Adventure and Rebellion
Today, the skull and crossbones continue to be used to invoke a sense of adventure and rebellion. The symbols appear on clothing, accessories, and even in pop culture as a way to suggest a wild and adventurous spirit. Some people may use the symbol to represent a willingness to go against the norms of society or to rebel against authority.

The Popularity of Skull and Crossbones Merchandise
The skull and crossbones design has become incredibly popular over the years, and not just in reference to pirates. It has been adopted by various subcultures, including punk, goth, and heavy metal, as a symbol of anti-establishment and non-conformity. Thus, it has become a staple of merchandise, from t-shirts to keychains.

Conclusion
The skull and crossbones design used on pirate flags represents much more than just a warning of danger. Its historical symbolism is rooted in the fear of death, which caused people to take greater caution when dealing with pirates. Today, the design has become a symbol of adventure and rebellion, with many people using it to express their willingness to go against the norms of society.

Other Common Pirate Symbols

Aside from the skull and crossbones, there were other symbols and images that frequently appeared on pirate flags. One of the most common was the jolly roger, which was simply a generic term for any pirate flag. The actual design of the flag varied widely, but often featured a skull or skeleton, swords, hourglasses, or other symbols of death.

Another popular symbol was the red flag, which signaled that the pirates had no intention of taking prisoners and would show no mercy in battle. The black spot was a piece of paper with a black spot drawn on it, and was used by pirates as a form of judgment. If a pirate received a black spot, it meant that they were condemned to death or expulsion from the crew.

The hourglass was another motif that appeared frequently on pirate flags. This symbolized the idea that time was running out, either for the pirates themselves or for their victims. The cutlass was another common image, representing the pirates’ weapons of choice.

Some pirate flags also featured animals and mythical creatures. For example, the flag of the famous pirate Black Bart Roberts depicted a man standing on two skulls, holding an hourglass in one hand and a cutlass in the other, with a creature resembling a winged boar at his feet. The flag of the pirate Blackbeard showed a devil with a spear, while the flag of the pirate Calico Jack featured a skull with crossed swords and a pair of female figures known as “Calico Jenny” and “Mary Read.”

These symbols all served to strike fear into the hearts of the pirates’ victims, and to cement their reputations as ruthless, merciless outlaws. Though many of these symbols are still associated with piracy today, they remain a powerful reminder of the lawless and often brutal world that pirates once inhabited.

Modern Use of Pirate Flags

In modern times, pirate flags have moved beyond their historical use and have been adopted for various modern purposes. Here are some examples of the modern use of pirate flags.

1. Merchandise: Pirate flags are widely used in the production of merchandise and are sold all over the world. T-shirts, hats, mugs, and many other items are often emblazoned with images of famous pirate flags.

2. Sports: Some sports teams, particularly in the United States, have adopted pirate themes in their branding. This includes using pirate flags as part of the team logo or on team merchandise.

3. Tourism: Pirate flags have become popular in tourist areas near the Caribbean, such as theme parks and museums. The Pirate’s Code, which was a set of rules that was commonly used by pirates in the past, is now often used as a theme for escape rooms in various tourism destinations.

4. Parties: Pirate flags often serve as decorations for themed parties, such as Halloween parties. They are also used in festivals such as pirate fairs or Renaissance fairs.

It is worth noting that the use of pirate flags is not without controversy. Some argue that the romanticized image of piracy that is often associated with the flag can overshadow the harsh realities of piracy. There is also concern that the glorification of piracy creates an unhealthy fascination with the subject.

Despite the controversy, pirate flags continue to be used in a variety of settings and remain a popular symbol in modern culture.

Conclusion

In conclusion, pirate flags from around the world offer a unique glimpse into the history and culture of piracy. From the early origins of the Jolly Roger to the complex symbols and designs of more recent pirate flags, there is no doubt that these flags played a significant role in the legacy of piracy in both fact and fiction.

The meanings behind these flags also provide insight into the mindset and motivations of pirates throughout history. While the skull and crossbones is undoubtedly the most recognizable symbol associated with pirates, other symbols such as hourglasses, hearts, and swords reveal a complex interplay of pride, fear, and bravado.

Today, pirate flags have taken on a life of their own, often used as symbols of rebellion, freedom, and individualism. The continued popularity of pirate culture and imagery speaks to the enduring allure of these seafaring outlaws and their legacy.

In sum, pirate flags from around the world are fascinating symbols of a bygone era, but they also continue to inspire and captivate people around the world. Whether for historical interest or modern-day fashion statements, these flags remain a crucial part of popular culture and will undoubtedly continue to hold a place in our imaginations for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the most famous pirate flag?

The most famous pirate flag is the Jolly Roger, which became popular during the Golden Age of Piracy (17th and 18th centuries).

2. Did all pirates use the same flag?

No, not all pirates used the same flag. In fact, many pirates had their own unique designs and symbols on their flags.

3. Why did pirates use flags?

Pirates used flags to intimidate and terrify their targets. The sight of a pirate flag would often cause other ships to surrender without a fight.

4. What was the meaning of the skull and crossbones on pirate flags?

The skull and crossbones on pirate flags represented death and danger. It was meant to intimidate and strike fear into the hearts of those who saw it.

5. Were pirate flags always black?

While black was a common color for pirate flags, they were not always black. Some flags featured a variety of colors and designs.

6. Who designed the first pirate flag?

It’s unclear who designed the first pirate flag, as the practice of using flags dates back to ancient times. However, Blackbeard is often credited with popularizing the Jolly Roger flag.

7. Did female pirates have their own flags?

Yes, female pirates often had their own unique flags. Anne Bonny and Mary Read both had flags featuring female figures.

8. What other symbols were commonly found on pirate flags?

Other common symbols found on pirate flags include swords, hourglasses, and skeletons.

9. What is the modern use of pirate flags?

Today, pirate flags are often used as a symbol of rebellion and nonconformity, particularly in popular culture such as movies and TV shows.

10. Are there any laws against flying a pirate flag?

No, there are no laws against flying a pirate flag. However, it may not be well-received in certain settings or among certain individuals.

References

• Famous Pirate Flags And Their Meanings – Vispronet