“B” is for Bonnet, Stede (1688-1718)

“B” is for Bonnet, Stede (1688-1718). Pirate. A native of Barbados, Bonnet was a member of the island's planter elite until 1717 when he purchased and armed the Sloop Revenge to pursue a career as a pirate. He sailed north to prey upon the crowded sea lanes of the North American coastline, plundering ships from New York to Charleston. He then joined forces with Blackbeard. In mid-May 1718, they blockaded Charleston-- looting numerous vessels and seizing hostages for ransom.  Bonnet resumed command of the Revenge. After a successful voyage off Virginia, he decided to refit his pirate fleet at Cape Fear. In September 1718 after a fierce six-hour battle with a South Carolina naval force, Bonnet surrendered.  Taken to Charleston, Stede Bonnet and thirty-three members of his crew were tried, convicted, and hanged for the crime of piracy.