Learn More about Grace O'Malley:
Although a plethora of popular pirate writings have made the world at large aware of the big names (like Calico Jack and Blackbeard), even some of the most stalwart fans of swashbuckling are unaware that many of the toughest pirates were women. And naturally one of the big names in female piracy would be IRISH!
Gráinne Ní Mháille was Queen of Umaill, chieftain of the Ó Máille clan following in the footsteps of her father Eoghan Dubhdara Ó Máille. Upon his death, she inherited his large shipping and trading business.
Her exploits include - in addition to "traditional" piracy - ikidnapping, revenge, the castle siege of Doony Castle in Ballycroy, revolutionary activity and a famous meeting with Queen Elizabeth.
Her adventures are many and have inspired songs, plays and books.
To learn a LOT more about The Queen of Pirates, check out the WIKI - she ROCKS!