Henry Avery The legendary English pirate Date of Birth: 23.08.1659 Country: Great Britain

1. Early Life and Origins
2. Pirate Career
3. The Capture of the "Ganj-i-Sawai"
4. Return to the Bahamas
5. Fate and Legacy

Early Life and Origins

The enigmatic figure known as Henry Avery remains a historical shroud of mystery, with his true name, birth, and death dates lost to time. According to Charles Johnson's "General History of the Pyrates," he was born in 1653 in Devonshire, near Plymouth. However, a Dutch captive, Van Brook, claimed that Avery's real name was Henry Bridgman and that he adopted the alias "Avery" to protect his family from persecution.

Pirate Career

Avery's piratical exploits began in 1694 when he served as first mate on the 46-gun frigate "Charles II." After being unjustly denied pay, the crew mutinied on May 7th, 1694, and seized the ship. Avery assumed command, and the newly christened "Fancy" set sail towards West Africa.

As they sailed, Avery captured English and Danish vessels, recruiting volunteers to bolster his crew. Bypassing Madagascar, they made their way to the Comoros Islands. On Anjouan, Avery penned a now-famous letter, declaring his intentions not to harm English or Dutch ships and warning of his readiness to strike those who crossed his path.

The Capture of the "Ganj-i-Sawai"

With a formidable fleet assembled, Avery ventured into the Red Sea. Near the entrance, they encountered a convoy of 25 Indian vessels returning from pilgrimage to Mecca. Despite being short-handed, Avery gave chase and quickly intercepted the lead ship, the "Fateh Muhammad." After a brief resistance, it surrendered.

Avery then set his sights on the grand prize, the "Ganj-i-Sawai." Carrying vast wealth and officials of the Great Mughal, it was fiercely defended. However, Avery's superior firepower eventually prevailed, and the Indian flagship fell into his hands.

Return to the Bahamas

Following the acquisition of their immense treasure, the pirate crew debated their next move. While the English favored returning to Nassau in the Bahamas, the French and Danes preferred to remain in the Indian Ocean. Avery ultimately decided to sail for New Providence, disembarking the non-English contingent on Bourbon Island.

Fate and Legacy

Upon reaching Nassau, Avery distributed his ill-gotten gains, generously rewarded the Governor, and acquired a smaller vessel. However, with a price on his head, he soon left for Boston and eventually Ireland. The true fate of Henry Avery remains unknown, with rumors persisting of sightings and encounters long after his disappearance into the annals of history.