what is a tot of rum
(Domestically produced meaning produced on the captured island of Jamaica, of course.) Referred to as a tot, this ration of rum measured about half a pint and was given to sailors around midday. The order used to distribute rum rationsâsplice the mainbraceâgot its name from one of the most difficult repair jobs aboard it the ship. It remains a euphemism for having a drink today. In order to ensure that the rum hadn't been watered down, the sailors would prove the spirit's strength by pouring it on gunpowder and then trying to ignite it.