Skull and Crossbones T-Shirt

The flag most commonly identified as the Jolly Roger today is the skull and crossbones. This design was used by several pirates, including Captains Edward England and John Taylor. Historically, the flag was flown to frighten pirates' victims into surrendering without a fight, since it conveyed the message that the attackers were outlaws who would not consider themselves bound by the usual rules of engagement—and might, therefore, slaughter those they defeated (since captured pirates were usually hanged, they did not have much to gain by asking quarter if defeated). Flown on Lake Erie shore, May, 2013.