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Blackbeard

Blackbeard was an English pirate active during the early 18th century, best known by the name Edward Teach, though his surname also appears as Thatch or Thack in historical sources.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Blackbeard was an English pirate active during the early 18th century, best known by the name Edward Teach, though his surname also appears as Thatch or Thack in historical sources. He became one of the most infamous pirates of the Golden Age of Piracy and was killed in battle off North Carolina in 1718.

Early life

Blackbeard's early life is poorly documented. Most sources place his birth around 1680 and connect him to Bristol, England, but both the date and place remain uncertain.

Pirate career

After earlier service as a privateer, Blackbeard entered piracy in the Caribbean and later operated along the eastern coast of North America. He gained a reputation for intimidation and for capturing merchant vessels, with his career at its peak around 1716 to 1718. He is strongly associated with the ship Queen Anne's Revenge.

Death

Blackbeard was killed on 22 November 1718 in a battle near Ocracoke Island, North Carolina, during an encounter with colonial forces under Lieutenant Robert Maynard. Accounts differ on the exact wounds, but all agree that he was killed in combat and then decapitated.

Legacy

Blackbeard became a lasting figure in maritime folklore and popular culture. His notoriety was amplified by later storytelling, and his image remains one of the best-known symbols of piracy.

Key facts

  • Blackbeard is the pirate alias most commonly associated with Edward Teach.
  • His pirate career was brief, lasting roughly two years or less.
  • He operated in the Caribbean and along the Atlantic coast of North America.
  • He was killed in a fight with forces led by Lieutenant Robert Maynard in 1718.

Frequently asked questions

Who was Blackbeard?
Blackbeard was the alias of Edward Teach, a notorious English pirate active in the early 18th century.
When was Blackbeard born?
His birth is usually placed around 1680, but the exact date and even the exact birthplace are uncertain.
What ship is Blackbeard best known for?
He is most closely associated with the Queen Anne's Revenge.
How did Blackbeard die?
He died in combat in November 1718 near Ocracoke Island, North Carolina, after being engaged by colonial forces led by Lieutenant Robert Maynard.
Was Blackbeard a privateer before becoming a pirate?
Yes. Sources state that he likely served as a privateer during Queen Anne's War before turning to piracy after the war ended.
Why is Blackbeard famous?
He became one of the most notorious pirates in history because of his short but dramatic career, fearsome reputation, and enduring place in pirate legend.

References

  1. Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/biography/Blackbeard
    Supports: Alias, approximate birth details, death details, and overview of Blackbeard as a famous pirate.
  2. U.S. National Park Service — https://www.nps.gov/people/blackbeard.htm
    Supports: Edward Teach identity, privateer background, piracy career, death, and aftermath.
  3. NCpedia — https://www.ncpedia.org/biography/blackbeard-the-pirate
    Supports: Name variations, approximate birth, and death in battle with Robert Maynard.
  4. Royal Museums Greenwich — https://www.rmg.co.uk/stories/maritime-history/who-was-blackbeard
    Supports: Full name, years active, flagship, area of operation, and death account.
  5. World History Encyclopedia — https://www.worldhistory.org/Blackbeard/
    Supports: General account of Blackbeard's pirate career and later legendary reputation.