Who is the Most Successful Pirate of All Time?

When discussing the most successful pirates in history, various criteria such as wealth accumulated, influence during their lifetime, and lasting impact come into play. This article delves into the life and exploits of who many consider the most successful pirate: Bartholomew Roberts, also known as Black Bart.

Introduction to Bartholomew Roberts

Bartholomew Roberts, born John Roberts in 1682 in Wales, turned to piracy in 1719 when he was captured by pirate Howell Davis. Following Davis’s death, Roberts was elected as his successor. His career spanned just three years, but his impact was monumental.

Roberts’ Achievements in Piracy

Roberts’ success can be measured through several impressive statistics and actions:

• Number of Ships Captured: Roberts is credited with capturing over 400 ships across the Americas and West African coasts.
• Wealth Accumulated: He amassed incredible wealth, although the exact figures remain unknown. His loot included gold, jewels, and other valuable cargo.
• Influence and Power: Roberts commanded fear and respect. He had a strict set of pirate codes which contributed to his crew’s discipline and success.
• Innovative Tactics: He was known for his bold tactics, including blockading ports and executing daring raids.

Notable Incidents in Roberts’ Career

Several key events highlight Roberts’ career and underscore his reputation as a formidable pirate:

• The Capture of the Portuguese Ship Sagrada Familia: Perhaps his most famous capture, this ship was loaded with gold, jewelry, coins, and other valuables meant for the King of Portugal.
• Blockade of the Harbor at Newfoundland: In one of his most audacious moves, Roberts and his fleet captured and destroyed over 22 vessels in the harbor, crippling the local economy.

Roberts’ Code and Leadership

Roberts was not only a successful pirate due to his ability to capture ships but also because of his leadership style. He implemented a pirate code that included articles such as:

• No gambling on board.
• Fair distribution of loot.
• Maintenance of weapons.
• No women allowed on board.

These rules helped maintain discipline and loyalty among his crew, which was crucial for his success.

Comparative Analysis

While other pirates like Edward Teach (Blackbeard) and Henry Every are often romanticized in popular culture, their actual impacts and successes pale in comparison to those of Roberts. For instance, Blackbeard’s career was marked by his fearsome image but lasted only about two years, and he did not achieve the wealth or capture the number of ships that Roberts did.

Conclusion: The Legacy of Bartholomew Roberts

Bartholomew Roberts stands out as the most successful pirate of all time due to his strategic prowess, leadership, and the sheer scale of his achievements. His influence extended beyond his life, affecting maritime laws and piracy policies of the 18th century. The legacy of Black Bart, a disciplined leader who enforced a strict code among his crew, redefined piracy in the Golden Age and set standards that are referenced even in modern depictions of pirates.

In conclusion, while many pirates have made their mark on history, Bartholomew Roberts’ combination of leadership, wealth accumulation, and impact on piracy make him the most successful pirate of all time.