Jack Ward

John Ward, also known as Sharkey, was an English pirate who became one of the most notorious figures in 17th-century piracy. Initially operating in the Mediterranean, he gained fame for his daring raids and sparing English ships, which earned him a Robin Hood-like reputation. After years of plundering, Ward converted to Islam, adopting the name Yusuf Reis and continuing his corsair activities under Barbary protection. He later retired to Tunis, where he lived comfortably until his death in 1622 from the plague.

Ward's legacy is marked by his significant influence on Mediterranean piracy, particularly in introducing square-rigged ships to Barbary corsairs. His life story inspired numerous literary works and has been adapted into various media, including a popular theory linking him to the character Jack Sparrow in *Pirates of the Caribbean*. Ward's enigmatic persona, blending piracy with cultural conversion, continues to captivate historical interest.