Final answer:
Piracy, privateering, and smuggling were interconnected, but each practice had its own distinct characteristics. Piracy and privateering involved attacking ships, while smuggling focused on illegal trade. Piracy was easier to suppress compared to smuggling.
Step-by-step explanation:
Piracy, privateering, and smuggling were all connected in various ways, but they also had distinct differences. While piracy and privateering involved attacking and seizing ships for personal gain or national interests, smuggling focused on the illegal transportation and trade of goods. However, there were instances where pirates engaged in smuggling activities to profit further. The main difference is that piracy was considered a criminal act and easier to suppress due to the efforts of naval forces and international agreements.