10 Real Pirates Of The Caribbean More Bad-Ass Than Jack Sparrow

7. 'Blackbeard' Edward Thatch - A Fearsome, Misunderstood Leader

As with the majority of pirates, Edward Thatch a.k.a. 'Blackbeard', was once a privateer of the Queen's navy, who fell out of work following the conclusion of war with Spain, and gained an immortal reputation as one of the most fearsome pirates of history. After parting ways with his disposed captain Benjamin Hornigold, Thatch commandeered a mighty French vessel, equipped her with 40 guns and named her 'Queen Anne's Revenge'. After famously blockading Charlestown, South Carolina and earning a fine ransom in return, Blackbeard briefly retired before returning to piracy. However, his popular reputation as a cruel, wicked fiend is entirely unfounded. Blackbeard was a loyal, wise leader, one of the few who were able to keep control of a crew of thieves and criminals. He instilled fear in crews and captives alike, with his large figure, humourless demeanour and the singed wicks that protruded from his hat. Indeed, Blackbeard appreciated that fear was a greater mechanism of control than love. Ultimately, Blackbeard was amongst the less successful, unambitious pirates, not possessing the ruthless thirst for gold of which his brethren were famed for, yet his reputation and image ensured the navy would move to destroy him. Robert Maynard would eventually spring a trap to ambush the Revenge - hiding a crew beneath deck and springing a surprise, soon beheading Blackbeard for the world to see.