Woodes Rogers

Woodes Rogers was an English privateer captain who commanded a circumnavigation voyage (1708-1711) during which he rescued the marooned sailor Alexander Selkirk, the inspiration for Robinson Crusoe. He later became the first Royal Governor of the Bahamas, tasked with suppressing the pirate haven at Nassau, offering the 1718 royal pardon and driving out or capturing many pirates including Charles Vane. He died in Nassau in 1732 during his second term as governor.

Quick Facts

Real NameWoodes Rogers
Bornc. 1679
Died1732-07-15
NationalityEnglish
Years Active1708-1732
Known ShipsDuke; Duchess
FateDied in Nassau, Bahamas, on July 15, 1732, while serving as Royal Governor of the Bahamas

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