Monday, June 13, 2011

Was Captain Kidd framed? New exhibit airs doubts (AP)

LONDON – Many know of Captain Kidd, the Scottish-born buccaneer who terrorized the Indian ocean, attacked Muslim pilgrims and was hanged as a pirate at London's Execution Dock.

Fewer know of his services to the British crown, his royal seal of approval, and the powerful, well-connected noblemen who Kidd believes double-crossed him.

A new exhibit at the Museum of London argues that Kidd's career wasn't as black-and-white as the skull-and-crossbones, and invites fans of the 17th-century adventurer to ask whether he was made a scapegoat for other men's schemes.

The exhibit opening Friday has the obligatory swords, flintlock-pistols, gold coins, and a Jolly Roger.

It also tells the story of Kidd, whose tale of hidden treasure turned him into an icon of the age of piracy.


View the original article here

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