Anne Bonny and Mary Read: The Pirate Queens of 1720

The Daring Lives of Anne Bonny and Mary Read

Anne Bonny's Life as a Pirate

Anne Bonny was born in Ireland around 1700 but became a notorious figure in the world of piracy in the early 18th century. She is remembered as one of the few female pirates to operate alongside men. Fierce and independent, her remarkable journey began when she moved to Charleston, South Carolina, with her wealthy plantation owner father. Her rebellious nature soon led her to a life of adventure on the high seas, where she adopted a male persona to navigate the treacherous waters of piracy.

Mary Read's Adventurous Spirit

Mary Read, born around 1690 in England, had a similarly enthralling background; she disguised herself as a boy from an early age to survive. After a slew of pirate adventures, fate brought her together with Anne. Together, they became infamous for their daring exploits, capturing ships and outsmarting naval forces.

The Trial and Sentencing in 1720

The Capture of the Pirate Queens

In 1720, the two women were captured in a naval raid led by Captain Jonathan Barnet. Their trial took place in Spanish Town, Jamaica, where the charges of piracy and robbery were brought against them. The courtroom was abuzz with the unusual sight of two women standing trial for crimes typically associated with men during that era.

Sentenced to Death

Despite their spirited defenses, both Anne Bonny and Mary Read were found guilty and sentenced to death. Their cases became sensationalized, reflecting the public's fascination with piracy and the unconventional lives of women like them. However, their pregnancies, revealed during the trial, won them stays of execution, leaving their fates uncertain but sparking debates about gender roles and justice.

Fun Fact

Anne Bonny's Notorious Escape

Legend has it that Anne Bonny's bold personality influenced her escape from execution. Before her supposed execution, she tricks the authorities into thinking she has a solid plan to evade justice, showcasing her cunning intellect and fierce will to survive.

Additional Resources

Recommended Reading on Anne Bonny and Mary Read

For deeper exploration into the lives of these pirate queens, consider reading "Pirate Women: The Birth of the Female Pirate" and "A General History of the Pyrates". These works shed light on the extraordinary adventures and historical contexts surrounding female piracy.