38 Facts About Henry Every

Early Life of Henry Every

Henry Every, also known as Henry Avery, was one of the most notorious pirates of the late 17th century. His life before piracy remains shrouded in mystery, but here are some fascinating facts about his early years.

1. Henry Every was born around 1659 in Newton Ferrers, a small village near Plymouth, England.
2. He was also known by the alias "Long Ben," a common nickname for tall men during that era.
3. Before turning to piracy, Every served in the Royal Navy, gaining valuable maritime experience.
4. He later worked as a privateer, which was a government-sanctioned pirate, during the Nine Years' War.
5. Every's transition to piracy began when he joined a Spanish expedition to the Caribbean, which ended in mutiny.

The Rise of a Pirate Legend

Every's career as a pirate was marked by daring exploits and incredible success. His most famous act of piracy cemented his place in history.

6. In 1694, Every became the captain of the ship Fancy after leading a mutiny against the Spanish.
7. He renamed the ship Fancy and outfitted it with 46 guns, making it a formidable pirate vessel.
8. Every's most famous exploit was the capture of the Ganj-i-Sawai, a massive Mughal ship, in 1695.
9. The Ganj-i-Sawai was carrying pilgrims and immense wealth, including gold and jewels.
10. The loot from this single raid was estimated to be worth over £600,000, a fortune at the time.

The Infamous Pirate Code

Every's success was partly due to his strict adherence to a pirate code, which helped maintain order and discipline among his crew.

11. Every's pirate code included rules about the division of loot, ensuring fair shares for all crew members.
12. The code also prohibited fighting among crew members, with severe penalties for those who broke this rule.
13. Every's leadership style was democratic, with major decisions often put to a vote among the crew.
14. He was known for treating his crew well, which helped maintain loyalty and morale.
15. Every's code also included provisions for compensation if a crew member was injured in battle.

The Hunt for Henry Every

Every's exploits made him a wanted man, and a massive manhunt was launched to capture him. Despite the efforts of several nations, he managed to evade capture.

16. The British government offered a substantial reward for Every's capture, dead or alive.
17. Every's crew was also targeted, with many of them eventually captured and executed.
18. Despite the manhunt, Every managed to disappear, and his fate remains unknown.
19. Some reports suggest he retired to a life of luxury under an assumed name.
20. Others believe he died in poverty, unable to enjoy his ill-gotten gains.

Legacy and Cultural Impact

Henry Every's legacy as a pirate has endured for centuries, inspiring countless stories, books, and films.

21. Every's exploits were chronicled in "A General History of the Pyrates," a book published in 1724.
22. He is often depicted as a cunning and ruthless pirate, embodying the romanticized image of piracy.
23. Every's story has inspired numerous fictional characters in literature and film.
24. The legend of his hidden treasure continues to captivate treasure hunters and historians.
25. Every's life and career have been the subject of numerous academic studies and historical research.

Myths and Misconceptions

Like many historical figures, Henry Every's life is surrounded by myths and misconceptions. Here are some common ones debunked.

26. Contrary to popular belief, Every did not have a wooden leg or an eye patch.
27. He was not the first pirate to use the Jolly Roger flag, although he did fly a version of it.
28. Every's real name was not John Avery, as some sources claim.
29. The idea that Every buried his treasure on a remote island is likely a myth.
30. Every was not a bloodthirsty killer; he often avoided unnecessary violence.

The Enduring Mystery

The mystery surrounding Henry Every's fate continues to intrigue historians and enthusiasts alike. Despite extensive research, his final years remain a subject of speculation.

31. Some believe Every settled in Ireland, living under an assumed name.
32. Others suggest he may have fled to the American colonies, blending in with settlers.
33. There are theories that Every joined a pirate colony in Madagascar.
34. Some historians argue that Every's wealth was lost or squandered, leading to his downfall.
35. The lack of concrete evidence about Every's fate has only added to his legendary status.

Influence on Modern Piracy

Every's influence extended beyond his own time, shaping the practices and culture of piracy for years to come.

36. His success inspired a new generation of pirates, including the infamous Blackbeard.
37. Every's pirate code influenced the development of similar codes used by other pirate crews.
38. The story of his daring exploits continues to be a source of fascination and inspiration in popular culture.

The Legacy of Henry Every

Henry Every's life remains a mix of legend and mystery. Known as the "King of the Pirates," his exploits have fascinated historians and pirate enthusiasts alike. Every's infamous raid on the Ganj-i-Sawai and his subsequent disappearance have cemented his place in pirate lore. Despite the bounty on his head, he managed to evade capture, leaving many to wonder about his final days. His story highlights the golden age of piracy, a time when the high seas were filled with adventure and danger. Every's legacy continues to inspire books, movies, and research, proving that the allure of piracy is as strong as ever. Whether seen as a villain or a hero, Henry Every's impact on history is undeniable. His tale is a reminder of the complex and often romanticized world of pirates.