William Kidd was a Scottish sailor originally commissioned as a privateer to hunt pirates and enemy French shipping in the Indian Ocean. His capture of the Quedagh Merchant in 1698 was disputed as unlawful piracy, and he was arrested on his return to the American colonies. He was tried and executed in London in 1701; buried treasure legends associated with him persist without verified basis.
Quick Facts
| Real Name | William Kidd |
|---|---|
| Aliases | Captain Kidd |
| Born | c. 1654 |
| Died | 1701-05-23 |
| Nationality | Scottish |
| Years Active | 1696-1699 |
| Known Ships | Adventure Galley |
| Fate | Arrested in Boston, sent to England for trial, and hanged for piracy and murder at Execution Dock, London, on May 23, 1701 |
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