Anne Bonny

Anne Bonny was an Irish-born pirate active in the Caribbean during the early 18th century and is one of the best-known female pirates in the history of piracy.

Anne Bonny was an Irish-born pirate active in the Caribbean during the early 18th century. She is one of the best-known female pirates in history.

Who was Anne Bonny?

Anne Bonny was born around 1698 near Cork, Ireland, as Anne Cormac. She later moved to the American colonies. She became a pirate in the Caribbean around 1718 and is most famous for sailing with John "Calico Jack" Rackham. She was part of a small group of women pirates remembered from the Golden Age of Piracy.

What was her pirate career?

Bonny sailed with Rackham and was associated with fellow female pirate Mary Read. She operated in the Caribbean from about 1718 until her capture in 1720. Her crew was known for raiding ships in the region, and Bonny reportedly fought alongside the men during engagements.

What happened after her capture?

Bonny was captured with Rackham's crew in 1720, tried for piracy in Jamaica, and sentenced to death. Her execution was delayed because she was pregnant. What happened after is unclear: some accounts say she was released and later lived in South Carolina, while others suggest she died in prison or was hanged. She remains a prominent figure in pirate history and popular culture.