Blackbeard: The Pirate Who Became a Legend
Edward Teach, better known as Blackbeard, was one of the most notorious pirates of the early 18th century. He operated throughout the Caribbean and along the American southeastern coast, using fear and intimidation as much as force. His most famous ship was the Queen Anne’s Revenge. Blackbeard was killed in battle near Ocracoke Island, North Carolina, in November 1718.
Stede Bonnet, known as the “Gentleman Pirate,” had a very different background. Born into a wealthy family in Barbados, Bonnet owned a plantation and held a respectable position in colonial society before abandoning his life in 1717 to become a pirate. He eventually crossed paths with Blackbeard, and the two became associated during pirate operations along the southeastern coast. Bonnet was captured later in 1718 and executed in Charleston, South Carolina.
Together, Blackbeard and Bonnet represent the turbulent world of piracy that existed along the southeastern Atlantic coast during the final years of the Golden Age of Piracy.
My visit to the Pirates’ Treasure Museum in Savannah, GA.
