Alexander Selkirk had always exhibited a rebellious nature. Born in 1676 in Fife, Scotland, he was the offspring of a tanner. During his childhood, he gained a reputation for mischief and restlessness, frequently finding himself in trouble. At the age of 17, he had his first encounter with the authorities when he was charged with indecent conduct in a church. A few years later, Alexander unintentionally consumed salt water, which his younger brother found amusing and laughed at. However, instead of responding to the light teasing in a typical manner, Alexander reacted aggressively, almost shooting his brother before being subdued by onlookers. Alexander's extraordinary tail saw him travel the world as both pirate and privateer, and eventually marooned alone, with no help on the horizon.