American Privateers in the War of 1812-- Part 3: The Paul Jones' Case of the Fake Cannons

During the American Revolution  and War of 1812, privateers had to be bold and daring in order to survive and see financial success by bringing their prizes to port.

The Paul Jones left New York City in 1812 with 120 men, but only 3 guns (but pierced for 17 guns).    Before she met the British merchant ship Hassan, which carried 14 guns and a crew of 20 (not sure about the size of its crew here), the master of the Paul Jones had short lengths of lumber painted black and mounted on buckets at the gunports to resemble cannons from a distance.

Before engaging the Hassan, he filled his rigging with his men to appear that they also had a big crew.

Intimidated, the Hassan immediately surrendered and the Paul Jones not only got its first prize but those needed cannons.

Clever, Very Clever.  Psyche Them Out.  --Brock-Perry