Have you ever wondered how a seemingly ordinary sailor can transform into one of the most notorious pirates of the Golden Age? Today, let’s uncover the fascinating tale of Bartholomew Roberts, known far and wide as Black Bart, and his infamous ship: the Royal Fortune. Roberts’ life offers a captivating glimpse into piracy during a time when the high seas were both a place of trepidation and grand opportunity.
The Golden Age of Piracy was a period in which piracy on the high seas flourished. Spanning from the late 17th century to the early 18th century, this era saw pirates blazing across the oceans, driven by greed, adventure, and often, survival. Among these audacious figures, Bartholomew Roberts stood out not only for his prolific plundering but also for his remarkable story of transformation.
Understanding Roberts’ journey is crucial to grasp the broader context of piracy during that age. Through the tale of the Royal Fortune, you’ll gain insight into how pirates operated, what drove them, and the legacy they left on maritime history. Ready to set sail on this historical venture?
The Rise of Black Bart
Bartholomew Roberts wasn’t always known by the feared moniker “Black Bart.” Born in Wales in 1682, he began life as John Roberts, entering the world of seafaring early on. Unlike many pirates of his time, Roberts was an educated man, which set him apart in the cutthroat world of piracy.
From John Roberts to Bartholomew
Roberts’ transformation into a pirate captain was neither immediate nor willing. Initially, he worked on a slave ship, a common occupation for many sailors of his time. However, everything changed when the ship was captured by pirates in 1719 near the coast of West Africa. The pirate captain, Howell Davis, took Roberts onboard, recognizing his navigation skills and seafaring experience.
- Intriguing Fact: The name “Bartholomew” was not his birth name. Davis, recognizing Roberts’ potential, gave him the name to echo the infamous 16th-century pirate Bartholomew Sharp. This new persona would soon make waves across the seas.
While Roberts had no immediate desire to become a pirate, his fortunes turned once Davis was killed in an ambush. The remaining crew elected Roberts as their new captain, setting the stage for his legendary career.
The Legacy of the Royal Fortune
The Royal Fortune was not just a single ship but a name Roberts gave to several vessels that became synonymous with his piracy exploits. Each iteration of the Royal Fortune was an embodiment of Roberts’ increasingly daring and successful adventures.
The First Royal Fortune
Roberts’ first Royal Fortune was captured in the Caribbean. This 26-gun frigate played a pivotal role in his early successes and allowed him to establish a fearsome reputation. With the Royal Fortune’s speed and firepower, Roberts was unstoppable, raiding over 400 ships during his career.
- Did You Know? Roberts was known for his distinctively flamboyant attire — a red waistcoat and a feathered hat — which he wore while attacking ships, making an unforgettable impression on his victims.
The Capture of the Princess
One of Roberts’ most famed exploits was the capture of the Princess, a Dutch ship that made Roberts even wealthier and more feared. This ship carried a significant haul of gold, diamonds, and other precious cargo, further solidifying Black Bart’s reputation as the wealthiest pirate of his time.
The Evolution of the Royal Fortune
Throughout his career, Roberts commanded several vessels named the Royal Fortune, each more formidable than the last. His ability to capture and utilize these ships showcased his strategic acumen and relentless pursuit of supremacy on the seas.
Here is a brief summary of the notable Royal Fortunes:
| Year | Ship Name | Features |
|---|---|---|
| 1719 | Royal Fortune (first) | 26-gun frigate, captured in the Caribbean |
| 1720 | Fortune | Known for its speed and agility |
| 1721 | Royal Fortune (last) | 42-gun flagship, captured along the African coast |
Black Bart’s Code of Conduct
What distinguished Roberts from other pirates was not just his daring escapades but also his unique pirate code. Roberts understood that discipline and unity were crucial for successful raids and long-term survival, especially in the chaotic world of piracy.
The Pirate Code
Roberts’ code was a set of rules that governed life aboard his ships. It ensured fair distribution of plunder and maintained order among the crew, preventing disputes from spiraling into mutiny.
Key points of Roberts’ Pirate Code included:
- Equal Vote: Every man on the ship had an equal say in important decisions, including where to sail next and the division of captured goods.
- Honesty: Theft among crew members was strictly prohibited and severely punished.
- Lights Out at Eight: To preserve energy and maintain discipline, all lights had to be extinguished by 8 PM.
- Cleanliness and Readiness: Crew members were expected to keep their weapons clean and be ready to fight.
The Capture of Treasure and Ships
Roberts’ capability to amass substantial treasure and commandeer countless ships was a testament to his cunning, strategic mind, and leadership prowess. His raids extend far and wide, targeting both merchant and naval vessels.
Notable Captures
One of Roberts’ most famous captures was the slaver ship, the Onslow, off the coast of Africa. While the cargo was often enslaved people, the true value lay in the ship itself and any riches it carried.
- Another notable haul was the capture of the Sainsbury, a French vessel loaded with sugar and cocoa. The profits from these trades ensured that Roberts and his crew lived a lavish lifestyle once on land, albeit briefly.
The Fall of Black Bart
Every adventurous tale from the Golden Age of Piracy eventually leads to a dramatic ending, and Roberts’ story is no exception. His formidable reign over the seas ended during an unexpected encounter.
The Final Battle
In 1722, while off the coast of Africa, Roberts engaged in what would be his final battle against British warships led by Captain Chaloner Ogle. The pirates were caught off guard, and during the intensity of the battle, Roberts was struck by grapeshot, collapsing instantly.
Not willing to let his body fall into enemy hands, Roberts’ devoted crew buried him at sea before their eventual capture.
- Fun Fact: This final battle marked one of the few instances in which pirates faced direct confrontation with a well-armed navy, showcasing the relentless pressure on piracy during its golden decline.
Aftermath and Legacy
Following Roberts’ death, piracy began to decline, partly due to increased naval patrols and tougher legislation. Roberts’ extraordinary life and his brief reign as one of history’s most successful pirates left an enduring legacy.
The End of an Era
Roberts’ exploits signaled the apex of piracy’s golden moments at sea. His success and eventual downfall exemplify both the allure and peril of a pirate’s life. Roberts’ discipline, savvy, and audacity not only made him a household name but also left indelible impressions on the annals of maritime history.
FAQs About Bartholomew Roberts and the Royal Fortune
1. Why was Bartholomew Roberts known as Black Bart?
Though Robert was often referred to as Black Bart, his nickname derived more from his ruthless efficiency rather than any notoriously black flags or attire. The moniker highlighted his fearsome reputation across the seas.
2. How many ships did Bartholomew Roberts actually capture?
It’s estimated that Roberts captured over 400 ships during his piratical career, making him one of the most successful pirates of all time.
3. What was the fate of the Royal Fortune ships?
Each Royal Fortune vessel met different fates. The first was abandoned, while the last, captured by the British, marked the end of Roberts’ reign. They were eventually integrated into naval flotillas or scrapped.
4. Was Roberts’ pirate code unique to his crew?
While pirate codes were common among pirate crews, Roberts’ version was notable for its detailed stipulations on governance and equality, highlighting a complex social structure aboard pirate ships.
5. What impact did Roberts have on piracy’s decline?
Roberts’ death symbolized a turning point in piracy’s golden age. Increased British maritime enforcement, combined with disbanded pirate haven bases, contributed to the sharp decline of high-seas piracy.
Conclusion
Bartholomew Roberts, with his Royal Fortune, carved out a unique legacy in the storied saga of the Golden Age of Piracy. His life, brimming with adventure, cunning, and audacity, provides a captivating lens through which we examine the realities of this tumultuous period. Through the rise and fall of Roberts, you can grasp an understanding of the broader world of piracy, its pitfalls, and its brief, shining allure. As with any kaleidoscope of history, the echoes of Roberts’ adventures continue to inspire narratives of daring and intrigue, capturing the imagination of those curious about the nebulous past of pirate lore.
