Bartholomew Roberts, born John Roberts in Wales, is considered the most successful pirate of the Golden Age by number of ships captured, taking an estimated 400-plus vessels. He rose to command after the death of pirate captain Howell Davis in 1719. Known for strict discipline aboard his ships and a personal code of conduct, he was killed in action against the Royal Navy warship HMS Swallow off the coast of West Africa in 1722, effectively ending his crew’s operations.
Quick Facts
| Real Name | John Roberts |
|---|---|
| Aliases | Black Bart |
| Born | 1682 |
| Died | 1722-02-10 |
| Nationality | Welsh |
| Years Active | 1719-1722 |
| Known Ships | Royal Fortune (several ships bore this name); Royal Rover |
| Flag | A pirate standing on two skulls labeled ABH and AMH (A Barbadian's Head, A Martinican's Head); also a figure of himself holding an hourglass and sword standing atop a skull |
| Fate | Killed by grapeshot during a battle with HMS Swallow off Cape Lopez, West Africa, on February 10, 1722 |
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