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When one thinks of pirates, it’s easy to conjure up a particular image—they often have a distinct appearance, mannerisms, and a unique way of speaking. This quintessential depiction of pirate dialogue can be traced back to a pivotal choice made by Robert Newton, who portrayed Long John Silver in the classic film adaptation of Treasure Island.
Newton opted to infuse his character with a pronounced West Country accent, which significantly shaped how pirates are portrayed in popular culture today. His performance has had a lasting impact, establishing a template for pirate speech that remains iconic.