Here at the #tallshipsfestival these #pirates still remember the good old days when they could seize a #tallship loaded with #cochineal #cargo and claim not only copious profits but even titles from the English crown. Cochineal is a #bug that grows on the prickly pear cactus. Because it cannot move around once it is attached to a cactus leaf it has evolved to produce #carminicacid that makes it unpalatable for predators. Carminic acid turns out to make a very strong and stable dye that the civilizations of #AncientMexico used to paint the pyramids. In Europe #red was such a scarce color because it was so difficult to produce; it was reserved only for the wealthy and powerful (Royals, Cardinals, High ranking military). At first the Spanish conquistadors didn't quite realize how much money they could make by #exporting cochineal to Europe. Suffice to say that, in the 16th century, by the time cochineal reached the markets of #Venice (where #Masterdyers were #dyeing the finest silks for the royals), it was being traded almost for its weight in gold #poundforpound. (at Dana Point Harbor)