United News of Bangladesh

Bringing together the diverse worlds of art, architecture, performance and cultural expression, Art Dhaka is set to open its doors to the public on Friday at Aloki in the capital, offering a five-day celebration of creativity and artistic exchange. The fair will welcome visitors daily from 10 am to 10 pm until November 10. Ahead of its public opening, Art Dhaka hosted a special preview on Thursday, welcoming an impressive gathering of invited guests, including ambassadors of various countries, renowned artists from different creative sectors, cultural and entertainment personalities, business figures, art enthusiasts and collectors. Founded by Durjoy Rahman, Nahar Khan, Fahd Sattar and Aumia Khundkar, Art Dhaka brings together their experience in art, culture, media and creative industries to establish a platform for artistic expression, cultural exchange and engagement with the wider creative community. The main art fair features two curated sections: 'The Still Point' on the upper floor, curated by Najmun Nahar Keya, and 'Narration. Thought. Chronicles.' on the ground floor, curated by Zihan Karim. Artworks on display will be available for purchase by visitors and collectors.

As winter approaches and daylight hours decrease, people vulnerable to seasonal depression may begin experiencing changes in their mood, energy levels and mental well-being. Millions of people worldwide are estimated to experience seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a form of depression that generally begins in autumn and improves during spring or summer. The condition can be triggered by reduced daylight, including the shift back to standard time, which occurred Sunday across much of the United States, resulting in darker afternoons. A milder form, known as subsyndromal SAD, is also recognised by medical professionals. Seasonal depression can also occur during summer, although researchers know less about this form. The condition was first described in 1984 by a research team led by Dr Norman Rosenthal, then a researcher at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), who introduced the term seasonal affective disorder. "I believe that because it is easy to remember, the acronym has stuck," Rosenthal said. Scientists investigate the causes of seasonal depression Researchers have yet to identify a single cause of seasonal affective disorder. According to the NIH, women are affected significantly more often than men. Its symptoms resemble those of other forms of depression and may include persistent hopelessness or pessimism, along with difficulties concentrating, remembering information and making decisions. Scientists are investigating how specialised cells in the eyes detect blue wavelengths of light and convert them into neural signals that influence mood and alertness. Sunlight contains substantial amounts of blue light. When these specialised cells absorb it, they activate areas of the brain responsible for alertness, helping people feel more awake and potentially improving their mood. Kathryn Roecklein, a researcher at the University of Pittsburgh, studied how the eyes of people with and without SAD respond to blue light. Her research found that people with SAD were generally less sensitive to blue light than those without the condition, particularly during winter. The findings point to a possible explanation for winter-related depression. Bright light therapy may help during shorter days Many people experiencing seasonal affective disorder benefit from light therapy, said Dr Paul Desan of Yale University's Winter Depression Research Clinic. The treatment involves sitting in front of a specially designed bright-light device for approximately 30 minutes each morning. These devices produce light around 20 times brighter than ordinary indoor lighting. Research supports using light therapy devices with a brightness of approximately 10,000 lux, a standard measurement of light intensity. Studies indicate that using them for 30 minutes every morning can help manage symptoms. According to Desan, the approach may also benefit people experiencing milder forms of winter-related low mood. Specialised light therapy devices typically cost between $50 and more than $400. However, Desan warned that some products marketed for seasonal affective disorder may not produce sufficiently bright light to be effective. Yale University has tested several products and published recommendations, while the nonprofit Center for Environmental Therapeutics provides a consumer guide to help people choose suitable devices. People diagnosed with SAD should also contact their insurance providers to determine whether the cost of a light therapy device is covered. Talk therapy and medication offer additional treatment options Antidepressant medications are among the first-line treatments for seasonal affective disorder, alongside light therapy. Doctors also recommend maintaining a consistent sleep schedule and spending time outdoors, including taking walks on cloudy days. However, the benefits of light therapy may diminish once people stop using the devices. Researcher Kelly Rohan of the University of Vermont said studies have found that cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), a form of talk therapy, can produce longer-lasting benefits. CBT involves working with a therapist to identify and change negative or unhelpful patterns of thinking. According to Rohan, therapy can also help individuals gradually reintroduce enjoyable activities into their daily routines. Planning simple, pleasurable activities can help people break out of seasonal withdrawal. These may include going outside, meeting a friend for coffee or participating in other enjoyable social activities.

China is planning to make archaeology more accessible to the public, with a new five-year strategy focusing on research, international cooperation, technological advancement and wider public engagement with archaeological discoveries. The country currently has 65 national archaeological site parks, which are increasingly attracting visitors. Visits to these sites rose from 20.97 million in 2021 to 97.74 million in 2025, reaching a total of 303 million over the five-year period. At the Dahecun National Archaeological Site Park in Zhengzhou, central China's Henan Province, an underground museum displays more than 1,500 artefacts showcasing the history of a Neolithic settlement dating back around 7,000 years. In Luoyang, also in Henan, several archaeological sites from different historical periods have become important cultural landmarks within the modern city. "Archaeological work is moving from a niche specialty toward broader public engagement," said Zhang Lei, head of the archaeology department of the National Cultural Heritage Administration (NCHA). The administration has outlined its priorities for archaeological activities during China's 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026-2030), including further research into the origins and development of Chinese civilisation, expanded international partnerships and greater use of modern technology. Under the plan, China will continue major research initiatives on the origins of its civilisation and the emergence of early states, while expanding archaeological studies at significant sites such as Erlitou, the Yin Ruins and Sanxingdui. Research will also cover the development of civilisation along the Yangtze River, human origins and evolution in East Asia, and maritime cultural heritage in the South China Sea and East China Sea. International cooperation will remain another priority, with joint archaeological projects planned with foreign partners, particularly countries participating in the Belt and Road Initiative. China aims to establish five to 10 model projects for international archaeological cooperation. The plan also emphasises stronger links between archaeology and natural sciences, humanities and social sciences, alongside the development of laboratories and digital and intelligent archaeological technologies. Training skilled researchers will also be a major focus. Shen Ruiwen, head of Peking University's School of Archaeology and Museology, said the institution would support the development of Chinese archaeology textbooks, establish standardised training bases and strengthen a training system combining classroom learning, fieldwork and laboratory research. The university also plans to expand specialised training in less-developed academic fields. Zhang Zhiguo, deputy director of the NCHA's National Center for Archaeology, said the centre would strengthen its laboratories and scientific research teams, promote interdisciplinary studies and expand international cooperation. He said efforts would also be made to upgrade equipment, develop new technologies and improve management systems to support archaeological research. Beyond academic research, the five-year plan seeks to improve how archaeological discoveries are documented, interpreted and shared with the public. Authorities will promote the publication of major archaeological reports, improve the management of archaeological records and establish regular procedures for transferring excavated cultural relics. The plan also calls for more educational activities at archaeological sites and public outreach programmes to help people better understand China's history and cultural heritage.

Citrus trees can thrive indoors during winter in colder regions if they receive proper care, sufficient sunlight and suitable growing conditions. While these subtropical and tropical plants can tolerate lower temperatures than many people expect, prolonged freezing conditions require them to be moved indoors. Unlike citrus growers in warmer regions, who can leave their trees outside throughout winter, gardeners in places such as New York often need to grow them in containers and move them indoors as temperatures drop. Meyer lemon and Ponkan mandarin trees, for example, can remain healthy and produce fruit indoors with the right winter care. Ensure adequate sunlight Citrus trees need plenty of light during winter. A well-draining potting mix specially prepared for citrus plants is recommended to maintain healthy roots and prevent waterlogging, particularly when the plants require less water during colder months. The sunniest location in the house is usually the best place for indoor citrus trees. South- or southwest-facing windows are ideal because they receive substantial sunlight. If natural light is insufficient, gardeners can use full-spectrum grow lights positioned above the plants for 10 to 12 hours daily. Keep pets away from citrus trees Citrus trees can be toxic to both cats and dogs, making it important for pet owners to keep them out of animals' reach. One possible solution is to cover the plants with a mesh bag fitted with a drawstring. This allows sunlight to reach the trees while preventing pets from chewing their leaves. However, mesh coverings may slightly reduce the amount of sunlight reaching the plants. Proper watering, fertilising and maintenance Indoor citrus trees should be kept away from cold drafts, radiators and forced-air heating vents. Sudden temperature changes and dry indoor air can stress the plants and cause their leaves to fall. A relatively cool room is generally better than an excessively warm environment. Maintaining humidity at around 50% is also beneficial. If indoor air becomes too dry, a humidifier can be placed nearby. Alternatively, the pot can be positioned on a shallow tray containing pebbles and water. Although citrus trees do not become fully dormant during winter, their growth slows considerably. Therefore, watering should be reduced, keeping the soil only slightly moist. Gardeners should allow the top one or two inches of soil to dry before watering again. Watering can be increased when new growth appears in spring. Fertiliser should be applied once a week from spring through September. However, feeding should be stopped completely during winter. Regularly inspect the leaves for pests, particularly their undersides, where spider mites, scale insects and aphids commonly gather. If pests are detected, insecticidal soap or neem oil can be used according to the product instructions. Gradually move trees outdoors in spring When temperatures become suitable again, citrus trees can be moved outdoors. Around late May, they should initially be placed in a shaded location before being gradually exposed to direct sunlight over approximately one week. This gradual transition helps the plants adjust to outdoor conditions and reduces the risk of stress caused by sudden changes in sunlight. Although indoor citrus trees may not produce as much fruit as those grown in warmer climates, proper winter care can still result in a rewarding harvest of fresh lemons and mandarins, suitable for making juice, desserts and homemade pies.

The Liberation War Museum has suspended a special exhibition commemorating the four national leaders on Jail Killing Day, following concerns raised by law enforcement agencies over the security situation. The exhibition, titled “The Four National Leaders in the Struggle for Independence”, was scheduled to open at 4pm on Tuesday at Gallery No. 6 of the museum. However, the museum authorities decided to suspend the event shortly before its scheduled inauguration. Museum trustee Mofidul Hoque confirmed the decision to the media, saying law enforcement agencies had expressed concerns over the situation. He said the exhibition was suspended in response to their request, prioritising security considerations. Ibn Mizan, deputy commissioner of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police’s Tejgaon Division, told the media that the event was being organised without permission. He said the Ministry of Liberation War Affairs had sought police assistance, informing them that no programme could be held at the venue without prior permission. Police subsequently visited the museum to oversee the situation. When asked whether the event had been cancelled, he said the museum authorities had decided that no programme would take place. The exhibition was scheduled to run from November 3 to 17. Waliul Islam, a former secretary and an official of the wartime government, had been invited to deliver a speech at the inaugural event. Through the exhibition, the organisers planned to highlight the contributions of the four national leaders to the country's independence movement and Liberation War. The invitation card also paid tribute to their courageous and glorious roles in the struggle for independence. On November 3, 1975, four key leaders of Bangladesh's Liberation War – Syed Nazrul Islam, Tajuddin Ahmad, Captain M Mansur Ali and AHM Qamaruzzaman – were assassinated inside Dhaka Central Jail.

Bangladeshi multidisciplinary artist Rashid Khan's solo art exhibition ‘River Script | Nodilipi’ will open at Dhaka Gallery in the capital’s Banani on Thursday. The exhibition will be inaugurated at 3 pm on November 5 at Dhaka Gallery, House 44, Road 12, Block E, Banani, and will continue until November 15. Moving beyond the conventional depiction of rivers as flowing bodies of water, the exhibition explores the idea of an inner river shaped by human emotions, memories and reflections. It invites viewers to look beyond familiar river landscapes and discover how rivers are intertwined with individual experiences and the evolution of civilisation. Through Rashid Khan’s paintings, rivers emerge in different forms, sometimes as flowing waterways, lines stretching across the horizon, or reflections of riverside settlements, livelihoods, cultures and collective memories. The exhibition features paintings by Rashid Khan, with curatorial exploration and writing by Dhaka-based painter and art writer Javed Jalil (JJ). As part of the exhibition, a series of special evening gatherings will be organised under the titles ‘Nodi Kotha’ (River Conversations), ‘Nodi Gaan’ (River Songs), ‘Nodi Sahitto’ (River Literature), ‘Nodi Golpo’ (River Stories), ‘Nodi Sur’ (River Melodies), ‘Nodi Path’ (River Readings) and ‘Nodi Lipi’ (River Script). A special workshop titled ‘Art in Everyday Life’, conducted by Javed Jalil, will also be held on November 10 at 3 pm. Bringing together visual art, literature, music, memories and personal reflections, the exhibition marks the first presentation under the initiative ‘Our River Stories’. Rashid Khan is a Bangladeshi multidisciplinary artist, musician and creative entrepreneur, and the founder and CEO of Creato. Active in painting since 1993, his works have been exhibited in Dhaka, Sydney, Melbourne and Miami. Javed Jalil is a Dhaka-based painter, art writer and curator whose artistic practice has also been shaped by his experience in the United States. His works have been featured in exhibitions at Kalakendra, EMK Center, Alliance Française and Taj Bengal Kolkata. The exhibition will remain open to visitors daily from 3 pm to 8 pm.

Finding the perfect gift for the holiday season can be challenging, but some innovative products stand out by offering practical solutions to everyday problems in unexpected ways. From smarter car diagnostics and multifunctional power tools to advanced pet feeders and sleep accessories, these eight creative gift ideas are designed to make daily activities easier, more convenient and enjoyable. Car diagnostics at your fingertips For car enthusiasts and drivers who want to understand their vehicle better, the Sparq AI OBD2 Scanner offers a handy solution. The Bluetooth-enabled device plugs directly into a vehicle and connects to a free app that explains 50,000 diagnostic codes in simple language. It also provides vehicle health checks, explains dashboard warning lights, helps investigate unusual noises, monitors tyre tread and reviews vehicle history. When repairs are needed, the app can also help users assess whether repair estimates are reasonable. The device costs $129. A multifunctional 3-in-1 drill Dremel's compact Blueprint DD-12V-S1 combines a power drill and driver with an integrated stud finder and a detachable, self-adhesive line laser featuring a bubble level. Its 12V brushless motor is supported by an LED light for working in dimly lit spaces and locating dropped drill bits. A battery indicator also helps users keep track of charging needs. The product is priced at $99, although prices may vary by retailer. Metal containers safe for microwave use Using metal cookware or aluminium foil in microwave ovens has traditionally been discouraged because of the risk of sparks and fire. As a result, most people rely on glass, ceramic or plastic containers for heating food. Genicook's microwave-safe stainless-steel containers offer an alternative. Designed with smooth, rounded edges to prevent sparking, they are lightweight and resistant to corrosion. The three-piece set includes containers with capacities of 3.4 cups (0.8 litres), 5.1 cups (1.2 litres) and 7.6 cups (1.8 litres). Each comes with a leak-proof tempered-glass lid featuring silicone vents. The set costs $54.99. A pet feeder that recognises individual animals Managing feeding routines can be difficult for households with multiple pets, particularly when animals try to eat from one another's bowls. The Surefeed microchip pet feeder addresses the problem by recognising individual pets through their microchips. Its battery-operated feeding unit opens its protective cover only when the designated pet approaches and closes automatically when the animal moves away. The system helps prevent dogs from eating cats' food or one cat from consuming another's meal. It is priced at $199. A smarter way to reseal food bags Traditional chip clips and rubber bands can close opened food packets but may not provide an airtight seal to preserve freshness. The handheld Magic Reseal magnetic heat sealer offers a more effective alternative. The USB-C rechargeable device features six sealing modes and can seal up to 300 bags of chips, cereals, coffee, frozen food and other products on a single charge. Users simply press the device against the open edge of a bag, slide it along the opening and wait a few seconds for an airtight seal. It also features a built-in cutter for opening or reopening packets. A magnet on its back allows it to be attached to a refrigerator for convenient access. Available in white and blue, the device costs $49.99. Turn almost any surface into a speaker The Anything Speaker is a compact, portable audio device weighing less than 3 ounces (85 grams) and measuring roughly the diameter of a silver dollar. Unlike conventional Bluetooth speakers, it uses bone-conduction technology to generate and amplify sound through vibrations. With an attached suction cup, or the included magnet or adhesive strip, users can attach it to surfaces such as doors, windows, tables, boxes, guitars, pianos and mirrors. The connected surface then produces 360-degree, omnidirectional audio streamed from a smartphone. A USB-C charging cable is included. The device comes in Aerospace Aluminum and Onyx Black finishes and costs $49.99. A sleep mask designed for side sleepers The Manta Sound Sleep Mask is designed particularly for people who sleep on their sides, combining light-blocking features with Bluetooth audio. It has adjustable C-shaped eyecups that sit flat against the temples to improve comfort while blocking 100 percent of light. Its breathable knit-mesh material adds to comfort during sleep. The mask also features adjustable, ultra-thin Bluetooth speakers measuring 0.2 inches (5 millimetres), offering up to 24 hours of playback at full volume on a single charge. It is also machine-washable and priced at $159. Keeping an eye on babies while driving Parents travelling with infants often rely on rearview or additional mirrors, or install separate baby cameras and monitors to keep an eye on children in the back seat. The BubbaSafe Baby View camera offers another option by connecting directly to a vehicle's Apple CarPlay screen. Mounted behind the front seat, the camera wirelessly transmits 1080p video to the car's display. Parents can view the footage in standard, split-screen or picture-in-picture modes, with infrared night vision available for low-light conditions. The camera comes in Cat, Dog and Panda designs and costs $208.

Filmmaker Tanvir Mokammel is bringing Pollikobi Jasimuddin’s celebrated narrative poem ‘Sojan Badiar Ghat’, a poignant tale of love across religious divides in rural Bengal, to the big screen, with 70 percent of the shooting of the two-hour feature film already completed. Mokammel, who has also written the screenplay, shared the latest update on the film's production through a social media post. First published in 1933, ‘Sojan Badiar Ghat’ is among Jasimuddin's most celebrated literary works. Set against the backdrop of rural Bengal, the narrative revolves around the tragic love between Sojan, a Muslim boy, and Duli, a Hindu girl, whose relationship faces the constraints of religious identity and social divisions. Through the fate of the two lovers, Jasimuddin explores communal harmony, human relationships and the barriers created by religious and social conventions. Rich in the folk traditions, language and landscape of rural Bengal, the work remains a significant expression of the poet's humanist vision and his deep connection with village life. In the film, Tanoy Biswas plays Sojan, while Radifa Narmin portrays Duli. Dihan and Shreya Baidya appear as the childhood versions of the two central characters. Rakibul Hasan is handling cinematography, while Mahadev Shi is responsible for editing. Uttam Guha is overseeing art direction, and Syed Shabab Ali Arzu is composing the background score. Aside from acting in this film, Chitralekha Guha is also overseeing  the costume planning and casting. Syed Shabab Ali Arzu, Sagir Mostafa, Sandip Mistry and Aparajita Sangeeta are working as assistant directors. Jasimuddin's daughter Hasna Jasimuddin Moudud is the co-producer of the film. The cast also includes Chitralekha Guha, Kazi Raju, Zubayer Zahid, Ahsanul Haque Minu, Swapna Baidya, Shah Alam Dulal and Rezaul Karim Reza, among others.

A French-Bangladeshi theatrical production blending Bengali ghost stories, body puppetry and live music inspired by the Sundarbans will be staged at the Experimental Theatre Hall of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (BSA) on November 6 and 7. Titled ‘Invisible Stories’, the production is jointly presented by Alliance Française de Dhaka (AFD), Compagnie Graine de Vie and Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy. Created and directed by French puppeteer Laurie Cannac, the production draws inspiration from Bangladesh’s oral traditions, cultural heritage and the deep-rooted presence of supernatural beliefs in everyday life. Inspired by her encounters with Bangladeshi artists and communities, Cannac has developed the performance as an artistic tribute to the resilience, humour, optimism and wisdom of the people of Bangladesh. The story follows two scientists investigating the influence of ghosts on everyday life in Dhaka. As their investigation unfolds, they embark on an extraordinary journey where the boundaries between the human and supernatural worlds gradually dissolve, taking them beyond the urban landscape into the mysterious wilderness of the Sundarbans. Through traditional Bengali ghost stories, the production reimagines Dhaka as a surreal metropolis, offering supernatural explanations for familiar urban realities, including notorious traffic congestion and rapid urban transformation. Bringing ancient beliefs into conversation with contemporary challenges, the performance explores cultural memory, ecological awareness and humanity’s enduring relationship with nature. Featuring Laurie Cannac and Swatee Bhadra, the production will also include live music by Nonabhumi Organisation, highlighting an artistic collaboration between French and Bangladeshi performers. The performance on November 6 will be presented in English and Bangla, while the November 7 show will be staged in French and Bangla. Both performances will begin at 6 pm at the Experimental Theatre Hall of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, located at 14/3 Segunbagicha Road in Dhaka. Admission is free and open to all, with seating available on a first-come, first-served basis.

An amateur historian has uncovered new evidence that a prominent historical figure associated with one of New York's most popular beaches may have helped notorious English pirate Capt. Henry Every escape authorities after a massive raid on an Indian treasure ship more than three centuries ago. James Bailey, who attracted attention five years ago after discovering ancient coins believed to be connected to Every, says colonial-era documents point to Thomas Jones, the namesake of Jones Beach State Park, as a possible accomplice of the infamous pirate. Jones Beach, one of New York's most visited state parks after Niagara Falls, attracts millions of visitors each year. Bailey said his latest research suggests that Jones played a significant role in what could be considered one of the largest robberies in the history of piracy. His investigation focuses on the 1695 attack on the Ganj-i-Sawai, a royal Indian treasure ship travelling through the Red Sea. Historical accounts say Every and his crew tortured, killed and sexually assaulted passengers and crew members during the raid, triggering international outrage and one of the earliest major international manhunts. Although several members of the pirate crew were eventually captured and executed, Every and many of his associates disappeared. They are believed to have fled to different parts of Europe and the American colonies. According to Bailey, depositions from associates of Every and other historical records suggest that Jones acted as a getaway operator, helping the pirates avoid authorities after they seized gold and silver worth tens of millions of dollars. Additional documents indicate that New York's colonial governor later investigated Jones over suspected links to piracy, even after he had established himself as a wealthy businessman involved in whaling on Long Island's coastal barrier island. Mystery surrounding Jones' past Bailey's findings, which he hopes to publish, offer further insight into the controversial history of Jones, whose possible involvement in piracy has long been mentioned in local historical accounts. John Hanc, author of Jones Beach: An Illustrated History, said Bailey's research sheds light on an aspect of Jones' past that has never been fully established in local history books. Jones previously served as a major in the English military before moving to the American colonies. He initially settled in Rhode Island and later became a prominent businessman and landowner in New York. He owned thousands of acres across Long Island, which was largely rural at the time. However, questions about the source of his wealth continued long after his death in 1713. His deteriorating mansion was associated with ghost stories and strange occurrences before being demolished in the early 19th century. His grave was also repeatedly disturbed by treasure hunters searching for hidden riches before his remains were moved to a family burial ground behind a nearby church. A family history published in 1906 by one of his descendants rejected the allegations, describing the pirate stories as malicious rumours and unlikely inventions. Was Jones involved in piracy? Historians say Jones' possible involvement in piracy cannot be dismissed entirely because he had previously worked as a privateer. Meagan Schulman, a doctoral candidate at Fordham University specialising in 17th-century piracy, explained that privateers were sailors authorised by the English crown to attack commercial vessels belonging to rival countries during wartime. However, when conflicts ended, such authorisation was withdrawn. Those who continued attacking ships could then be regarded as pirates. Schulman noted that privateers and pirates often carried out similar activities, although their legal status depended on whether they had government backing. After allegedly helping Every and his associates escape, Jones briefly returned to Rhode Island, according to documents cited by Bailey. In 1696, his father-in-law, wealthy New Yorker Thomas Townsend, reportedly gave Jones and his wife a substantial piece of land along Long Island's southern coast, according to property records. Bailey believes the land provided Jones with an opportunity to establish a new life while British authorities continued searching New England for Every and his associates. Jones subsequently built a home, raised a family and developed his business interests on Long Island. However, his suspected pirate connections resurfaced in 1698, when New York's colonial governor Richard Coote investigated allegations of piracy. In a report based on witness statements, Coote described how a barrel of money had been transported from New York City to Long Island and delivered to Jones' residence. Jones, whom the governor described as a former pirate, denied having any knowledge of the money. Piracy and colonial-era wealth Although Bailey's research presents an intriguing possibility, historians have cautioned against treating the findings as definitive proof. Richard Blakemore, a maritime history professor at the University of Reading in the United Kingdom, said the evidence was compelling but noted that Thomas Jones was a relatively common name, making it difficult to establish the individual's identity conclusively. Kevin McDonald, a history professor at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles who has written about piracy during the colonial period, said the alleged connection highlights how piracy helped generate wealth for influential families in northeastern America. Blakemore also noted that pirates were not necessarily social outcasts, as commonly portrayed in popular culture. Historical evidence suggests that piracy was closely connected to the social and economic structures of early British colonies.