The Rich History and Evolving Presence of Rum in Naval and Colonial Traditions

Rum, a fiery spirit with a rich and storied history, is closely associated with naval and pirate traditions. Brands like Captain Morgan, Kraken, and the famous Pirates of the Caribbean line have cemented its reputation as a symbol of adventure and seafaring legends. However, the reasons behind its prominence and the search for where rum has gone are multifaceted and rooted in colonial history, sugar cane production, and naval logistics.

Origins and Production of Rum

Rum is made from fermenting and distilling sugar cane. This traditional method of production made Caribbean islands with sugar plantations ideal for rum production. The islands became not only a hub for sugar cultivation but also for rum brewing. The production process, which involves fermenting sugar cane juice, followed by distillation to achieve the desired alcohol concentration, made rum a cheap and widely available spirit. This was crucial not only for the naval and pirate communities but also for the burgeoning American whaling industry.

Colonial Influence and Trade Routes

Aside from its production, rum played a significant role in the colonial economy. According to Servants and Servitude in Colonial America, by Russell M. Lawson, rum was also produced in New England from sugar grown in the Caribbean and then shipped to England. This allowed the spirit to reach not just the Caribbean and the Royal Navy, but also New England seamen, particularly whalers.

Additionally, the colonial slave system often involved the harsh practice of trading mainland American slaves to West Indian plantations for rum and sugar. Sugar cultivation and processing were profoundly detrimental to enslaved individuals, as the plantations frequently fell short of the slave labor required. The West Indies' reputation for producing the finest rum contributed to its high value, and thus, the expense of shipping a "stubborn" slave to the Caribbean and selling them for rum underscored this practice.

Rum Ration in the Royal Navy

Whereas rum became a staple for British Royal Navy sailors, it was not always available to all. The rum ration, specifically, was only issued to warships operating outside of home waters. Crewmembers stationed near the home ports would receive 'small beer' as their primary beverage. In the Mediterranean, wine was often issued instead of rum.

The rum ration served a dual purpose: it provided a morale-boosting beverage and a necessary caloric supplement to sailors' diets. However, the exact ration amounts and the reasons for varying it across different units remain an intriguing aspect of naval history.

The Modern Context of Rum and Where It May Be 'Gone'

While rum's historical prominence is unassailable, questions about the current presence of rum, or its perceived disappearance, are equally valid. As a seasoned sailor who has enjoyed rum, I still find myself grappling with the spirit's absence. Many mornings, my wife will ask, 'Where are your rums gone?' This question reflects a broader sentiment that the spirit has taken on cultural significance beyond mere consumption.

The transition from its historical role to a more modern social beverage has led to rum's evolution, but it remains a spirit that evokes tales of adventure, colonial power, and the enduring bond between humans and their beloved libations.

For a deeper understanding, perhaps opening a bottle of Pussers or exploring the nuanced history of rum through literature and archival records might offer some enlightenment.