This is a superbly written and thoroughly researched look at how combating international piracy may hold the key to beating terrorism. Attacks on cargo ships along the Somali coast by maritime thieves have recast the image of piracy for the 21st century. Gone is the faded image of Captain Kidd and buried treasure. In its place are gangs of seaborne thugs armed with rocket launchers and machine guns who bear striking resemblance in appearance and actions to terrorists. "The World for Ransom" is a compelling study that argues that the case for linking piracy and terrorism goes much deeper than just shared imagery. In fact, from a legal standpoint, it argues that piracy may hold the key to fighting international terrorism. Drawing on both historical examples and the present day situation off the coast of Somalia, this lucid and engaging volume provides not only a fascinating look at the history of piracy and the fight against it, but also a practical and coherent blueprint for tackling, and perhaps preventing, the international menace of both piracy and terrorism.
