Because of the island's hidden coves and the absence of European powers for centuries, Madagascar was once a secure sanctuary for hundreds of pirates. Captain James Misson allegedly established an anarchist colony (Libertatia) there in the late 17th century, whereas Ile Sainte-Marie, four miles off Madagascar's east coast, was simply referred to on maps as "the island of pirates" at the time. When they weren't robbing treasure, countless brigands, including Captain Kidd, found refuge there. Some are buried in the cemetery on the island.
Related Facts
Did you Know? More tourists visit Greece every year than the entire Greek population
Four of the top five most expensive coffee cities are Swiss.
Hong Kong has the most buildings per capita in the world.
Isaac Newton invented the cat door
Cities are home to 63% of Sweden's population.
When the first Lamborghini was presented, it didn't even have an engine.
Did you Know? The 1929 Wall Street Crash Did Not Cause a Rash of Suicides
Catnip Doesn't Excite Every Cat.
Fun Fact! Who was the Youngest Oscar Winner and at what age?
Flamingos have a 10,000–15,000-foot ceiling.
Many elements of Taiwanese life are influenced by Chinese culture
Gross...Phones have a dirtier surface than toilets.
Having thick skin Has a Use (Sometimes)
Diamond is the hardest natural substance on earth
The excreta of sperm whales was used in perfumes
Did you Know? San Marino is Europe's oldest 'Country.'
Did you Know? Brazil is a Global Biodiversity Hotspot
What is niacinamide?
The secret to success is rescue inhalers.
Sylvia Plath published her first poem when she was eight years old.
The First to Measure the Earth's Circumference
Did you Know? Lagaan has more British actors than the lead cast
Vision boards serve as mental rehearsals.
Redheads may adjust their body temperature more quickly.
The earth did not have a summer in 1816.