Outlaws & Criminals · 18th Century
Blackbeard’s Last Words
“Unknown — he was killed in battle.”— Blackbeard, November 22, 1718
Who Was Blackbeard?
Blackbeard (Edward Teach) was the most feared pirate of the Golden Age of Piracy. His imposing figure with smoking fuses in his beard terrorized the Atlantic coast and Caribbean.
The Final Moments
Blackbeard was killed in a fierce boarding battle with Lieutenant Maynard's crew off Ocracoke Island, North Carolina. He suffered five gunshot wounds and twenty sword cuts before dying.
Are These Words Verified?
Contemporary accounts describe the fierce battle but no final words were recorded. Maynard's official report details the engagement but mentions no dying statements from Blackbeard.
Sources
- firsthand Lieutenant Robert Maynard's report
- archive Colonial records 1718
Legacy
Blackbeard defined the popular image of piracy. His short but dramatic career has inspired countless books, films, and legends.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were Blackbeard’s last words?
“Unknown — he was killed in battle.”
How did Blackbeard die?
Blackbeard died on November 22, 1718 at the age of 38. Cause of death: Killed in battle (multiple wounds).
Were Blackbeard’s last words documented?
Contemporary accounts describe the fierce battle but no final words were recorded. Maynard's official report details the engagement but mentions no dying statements from Blackbeard.
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