Privateers, often seen as profiteers and pirates, were crucial to America’s first war. Explore this little-known part of Revolutionary War history. The ragtag fleet of private vessels, from 20-foot whaleboats to 40-cannon men-of-war, truly revealed the new nation’s character, its ambition and entrepreneurial ethos. Award-winning author Eric Jay Dolin will make this aspect of our early history come alive. The Danvers Historical Society’s monthly speaker series offers talks on a wide range of topics.