Maroon was the intentional leaving of someone in a remote area, such as an uninhabited island. The practice was a penalty for crewmen, or for captains at the hands of a crew. Generally, a marooned man was set on a deserted island, often no more than a sand bar at low tide. If possible, the island should be uncharted. He would be given some food, a container of water, and a loaded pistol so he could commit suicide if he desired; though in some cases, only a pistol was given.