A General History of the Pyrates Author:Captain Charles Johnson A General History of the Pyrates by Captain Charles Johnson was published in 1724. As the primary source of biographies of some of the most notorious pirates it influenced popular conceptions of the lifestyles. Missing legs or eyes, burying treasure and the name of the pirates flag the Jolly Roger was introduced in this touchstone of pirate lor... more »e as it has been incorporated into popular culture. A General History of the Pyrates has influencing literature and movies to this day.« less