Andrew Barton (privateer)

Andrew Barton (c. 1466 – 1511) was a Scottish sailor and privateer (although often described as a pirate by the English) who gained notoriety for his attacks on English and Portuguese shipping in the late 15th and early 16th centuries.

Born in Leith, Scotland, Barton came from a prominent family of sailors and merchants. His father, John Barton, and his brothers, Robert and John, were also involved in maritime activities, including trade and privateering. Andrew Barton's activities were often sanctioned by the Scottish crown through letters of marque, which granted him the right to attack and seize enemy vessels during times of war or reprisal.

Barton's primary targets were English ships, although he also engaged Portuguese vessels. His justifications for these attacks were varied, ranging from claims of piracy against Scottish ships to seeking redress for past grievances. His actions caused significant disruption to English trade and prompted numerous complaints from English merchants to their government.

The most famous incident involving Andrew Barton occurred in 1511 when he was captured and killed by English forces led by Sir Edward Howard. Howard intercepted Barton's ship, the Lion, off the coast of Kent. A fierce battle ensued, during which Barton was mortally wounded. Despite his death, the Lion continued to fight until it was eventually overwhelmed and captured.

Andrew Barton's death sparked outrage in Scotland and further strained relations between the two kingdoms. He became a popular figure in Scottish folklore, celebrated as a national hero who stood up against English aggression. Ballads and stories romanticized his exploits, often exaggerating his actions and portraying him as a Robin Hood-like figure who preyed on the rich to benefit the poor. While historical accounts suggest a more complex figure driven by personal gain and sanctioned by the Scottish crown, the legend of Andrew Barton continues to endure in Scottish popular culture.