Blackbeard Raids Charleston
In 1718 Blackbeard raided Charleston, South Carolina. He sailed up to the harbor bar in the Queen Anne’s Revenge, accompanied by three pirate sloops. For five days he blockaded the harbor, plundered any ships which came his way, and held the town to ransom.
“…appeared in sight of the town, took our pilot boat and afterwards 8 or 9 sail with several of the best inhabitants of this place on board and then sent me word if I did not immediately send them a chest of medicines they would put every prisoner to death, which for their sakes being complied with after plundering them of all they had were sent ashore almost naked. This company is commanded by one Teach alias Blackbeard has a ship of 40 odd guns under him and 3 sloops tenders besides and are in all above 400 men.”
1718
