Did Any Pirates Live to Old Age?

The golden age of piracy, spanning from the late 1600s to the early 1700s, conjures images of ruthless outlaws ruling the seas and engaging in violent battles. The life of a pirate was perilous and marked by battles, treachery, and the harsh conditions of the sea. Despite these dangers, some pirates did indeed manage to evade death in battle, execution, or the gallows, living into old age. This article explores the lives of several notable pirates who defied the odds and grew old, offering a glimpse into their later years and the factors that contributed to their longevity.

Notable Pirates Who Lived into Old Age

While many pirates met early deaths, a few notable figures managed to survive the hazards of their profession:

• 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 significantly damaged English relations with the Mughals, Every disappeared. Reports suggest he may have lived out his life in peace, possibly in Ireland or on a tropical island, dying of natural causes.
• 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 old by today’s standards, was considered a respectable age in the early 18th century, given the life expectancy and harsh conditions of the time.
• Samuel Bellamy: Known as “Black Sam” Bellamy, he was a well-known pirate who amassed great fortune. He died at 28, but his partner, Paulsgrave Williams, managed to survive and live into old age, eventually dying in his bed in Rhode Island.

Factors Contributing to Longevity Among Pirates

Several factors contributed to the longevity of those pirates who did live to old age:

• Retirement: Pirates who successfully retired from piracy and managed to avoid capture often lived longer than those who continued on the high seas. Retirement allowed them to escape the daily risks associated with active piracy.
• Wealth: Accumulating wealth allowed some pirates to afford better living conditions and healthcare, which could contribute to a longer life.
• Stealth and Cunning: Pirates who were particularly cunning tended to survive longer. Their ability to evade capture by naval forces or rival pirates played a crucial role in their longevity.

Life After Piracy

For those pirates who did live into old age, life after piracy varied significantly. Some, like Henry Every, disappeared and possibly lived their lives in anonymity and peace, their fates largely becoming the stuff of legend. Others might have used their wealth to enter legitimate enterprises or live quietly away from the law.

However, not all pirates who survived enjoyed a peaceful retirement. Some, like Captain William Kidd, were captured and executed, their dreams of a quiet retirement dashed. The transition from piracy to a more sedate lifestyle was often fraught with challenges, both in terms of evading the law and adjusting to a more conventional life.

Conclusion

While the life of a pirate was undoubtedly dangerous and few pirates lived to old age, there were exceptions. Pirates like Henry Every and Paulsgrave Williams managed to evade the typical fates of their compatriots through a combination of cunning, fortune, and sometimes, the ability to retire successfully. Their stories provide a fascinating glimpse into the potential for survival in an era when such a career was often swiftly and brutally curtailed. These tales not only illuminate the lives of the individuals who lived them but also enrich the colorful tapestry of pirate history.