Yes, Romani people, commonly known as Gypsies, were around during the Golden Age of Piracy, which roughly spanned from the late 17th century to the early 18th century. The Romani people originated in northern India and migrated to Europe over several centuries. By the time piracy was at its peak, they had established communities in various parts of Europe, including England, France, and Spain.
During this period, piracy was not just a maritime phenomenon; it was tied to the broader socio-economic dynamics of the time. The Romani faced discrimination and were often marginalized in society, much like many other groups that existed on the fringes of European communities. The interaction between various nomadic groups, including Romani people, and sailors or pirates could have occurred, although historical records specifically detailing their involvement or presence in piracy are sparse.
Overall, while the Romani were indeed present, the connections between them and piracy during this era remain largely unexplored in historical narratives.