37 Facts About Stede Bonnet

Who Was Stede Bonnet?

Stede Bonnet, often called the "Gentleman Pirate," was an unusual figure in the world of piracy. Unlike many pirates who came from rough backgrounds, Bonnet was a wealthy landowner before turning to a life of crime.

1. Stede Bonnet was born in 1688 in Barbados, a British colony in the Caribbean.
2. He inherited a large sugar plantation from his father, making him quite wealthy.
3. Bonnet married Mary Allamby in 1709, and they had three children together.
4. Despite his wealth, Bonnet grew dissatisfied with his life and decided to become a pirate in 1717.

The Unlikely Pirate

Bonnet's transition from a gentleman to a pirate was anything but typical. His story is filled with surprising twists and turns.

5. Unlike most pirates, Bonnet bought his own ship, the Revenge, instead of capturing one.
6. He hired a crew of 70 men, paying them wages rather than relying on the traditional pirate share system.
7. Bonnet lacked sailing experience, which made him dependent on his crew for navigation and combat.
8. He initially sailed along the American East Coast, attacking merchant ships.

Encounters with Blackbeard

One of the most intriguing aspects of Bonnet's pirate career was his relationship with the infamous pirate Blackbeard.

9. Bonnet met Blackbeard, whose real name was Edward Teach, in 1717.
10. Blackbeard convinced Bonnet to let him take command of the Revenge, relegating Bonnet to a more passive role.
11. The two pirates worked together for several months, capturing numerous ships.
12. Bonnet eventually regained control of his ship after parting ways with Blackbeard.

Capture and Trial

Bonnet's pirate career was short-lived, and he soon found himself facing the consequences of his actions.

13. In 1718, Bonnet was captured by Colonel William Rhett in the Cape Fear River.
14. He attempted to escape by disguising himself and his crew as merchants, but they were soon recaptured.
15. Bonnet was taken to Charleston, South Carolina, where he stood trial for piracy.
16. Despite his attempts to defend himself, Bonnet was found guilty and sentenced to death.

Legacy and Pop Culture

Stede Bonnet's story has fascinated historians and inspired various works of fiction.

17. Bonnet was hanged on December 10, 1718, bringing an end to his brief pirate career.
18. His life has been the subject of numerous books, articles, and documentaries.
19. Bonnet's story was featured in the popular video game "Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag."
20. He is often depicted as a tragic figure, driven to piracy by a midlife crisis.

Interesting Tidbits

There are many lesser-known facts about Bonnet that add depth to his intriguing story.

21. Bonnet's nickname, the "Gentleman Pirate," stemmed from his refined background and mannerisms.
22. He was one of the few pirates who could read and write, which was uncommon at the time.
23. Bonnet's ship, the Revenge, was a sloop, a type of fast and agile vessel.
24. He once captured a ship called the Francis, which he used to replenish his supplies.

The Pirate Code

Bonnet's adherence to the pirate code was unique, given his background and approach to piracy.

25. Unlike many pirates, Bonnet maintained a relatively strict code of conduct among his crew.
26. He avoided unnecessary violence, preferring to take ships without bloodshed.
27. Bonnet's crew respected him despite his lack of experience, likely due to his fair treatment of them.
28. He often provided his crew with better living conditions than those found on other pirate ships.

Bonnet's Influence

Stede Bonnet's impact on piracy and popular culture continues to be felt today.

29. His story has inspired numerous fictional characters in books and movies.
30. Bonnet's life serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of abandoning a stable life for adventure.
31. Historians continue to study Bonnet's career to better understand the complexities of piracy in the early 18th century.
32. Bonnet's relationship with Blackbeard remains one of the most intriguing partnerships in pirate history.

Final Days

The end of Bonnet's life was marked by a series of dramatic events that sealed his fate.

33. After his capture, Bonnet wrote a letter to the governor of South Carolina, pleading for mercy.
34. He attempted to escape from prison but was quickly recaptured.
35. Bonnet's trial was a public spectacle, drawing large crowds to witness the proceedings.
36. Despite his pleas for leniency, the court showed no mercy, and Bonnet was sentenced to hang.
37. Bonnet's execution was carried out in White Point Garden, Charleston, where a marker now commemorates his life and death.

Stede Bonnet's Legacy

Stede Bonnet's life was anything but ordinary. From a wealthy landowner to a notorious pirate, his story is filled with unexpected twists. His partnership with Blackbeard, the battles he fought, and his eventual capture and execution paint a vivid picture of the Golden Age of Piracy. Bonnet's unique background and unorthodox path to piracy make him a fascinating figure in history. His tale reminds us that even the most unlikely individuals can leave a lasting mark. Whether you're a history buff or just love a good adventure story, Bonnet's life offers a treasure trove of intrigue and excitement. So next time you think of pirates, remember Stede Bonnet, the gentleman pirate who dared to defy the norms of his time. His legacy continues to captivate and inspire, proving that truth can indeed be stranger than fiction.