Did Any Pirates Live Long Lives?

When we think of pirates, images of swashbuckling adventurers who lived fast and died young often come to mind. However, not all pirates met early or violent ends. Some managed to evade the gallows and lived to old age. This article explores the lives of several pirates who defied the odds and examines factors that contributed to their longevity.

Notorious Pirates Who Lived Long Lives

While many pirates’ lives were cut short by conflict or the law, a few notable figures managed to survive into old age. Here are some examples:

Henry Every: Also known as Long Ben, Every was one of the few major pirate captains to retire with his loot without being arrested or killed in battle. After his infamous capture of the Mughal ship Ganj-i-Sawai in 1695, which led to one of the richest hauls in pirate history, Every vanished. Reports suggest he may have lived quietly in Ireland or on a remote island until his death, possibly reaching his late fifties or early sixties.

Bartholomew Roberts: Known as Black Bart, Roberts was one of the most successful pirates of his time, capturing over 400 ships. He died at the age of 40, which, while not extremely old, was notable given the violent and risky nature of his profession.

William Kidd: Captain Kidd, once a respected privateer, turned pirate and was eventually captured and executed. However, before his piratical turn, Kidd enjoyed a relatively long career compared to many of his contemporaries, living until the age of 56.

Factors Contributing to Longevity Among Pirates

Several factors contributed to the longevity of those pirates who lived longer than most:

Retirement: Pirates who managed to retire and live off their ill-gotten gains could avoid the violent ends that befell many of their peers.

Smart Alliances: Some pirates formed alliances with local governments or powerful figures, which provided them protection from the law and rival pirates.

Avoidance of Battle: Pirates who avoided unnecessary battles tended to survive longer. Engaging in fewer combats reduced the risk of death from wounds or combat-related diseases.

Medical Knowledge: Pirates with access to medical knowledge, or those who plundered ships carrying medical supplies, had better chances of treating injuries and surviving diseases.

Case Study: The Long Life of Black Bart

Bartholomew Roberts, better known as Black Bart, stands out as a case study for pirate longevity. Despite his career’s violent nature, Roberts’ strategic approach to piracy allowed him to enjoy success over a relatively long period. He avoided unnecessary conflicts and was known for his strict discipline regarding drinking and behavior among his crew, which likely contributed to fewer onboard issues and injuries. His death at 40 during a fierce battle was notable because many pirates of his era didn’t live nearly as long.

Conclusion: The Rarity of Elderly Pirates

While a few pirates managed to live into old age, it remains clear that such cases were exceptions rather than the rule. The pirate lifestyle was fraught with dangers that often led to early deaths, whether through violent encounters, disease, or execution. However, the stories of those like Henry Every and Bartholomew Roberts highlight that even among pirates, strategic thinking, careful planning, and a bit of luck could contribute to a longer life than many might expect from such a perilous profession.

In conclusion, while the pirate life was undoubtedly risky and often cut short, a select few managed to defy the odds and live to tell the tale. Their stories continue to fascinate and offer a glimpse into a life that, while often brutal, also had its moments of cunning strategy and incredible fortune.