Edward Teach, better known as the infamous pirate Blackbeard, is a figure that has captured the imagination of many with his legendary exploits on the high seas. As a maritime historian and researcher, I've spent a considerable amount of time studying the life and lore surrounding this enigmatic character. Let's delve into the historical accounts to understand how big Edward Teach, or Blackbeard, really was. Step 1: English Answer Edward Teach, who adopted the moniker Blackbeard, was indeed a towering figure among pirates. The historical records, while not always consistent, provide us with a general picture of his physical stature. It is said that he stood at an impressive height of approximately 6 feet 5 inches, which was exceptionally tall for a man of his time. This height, combined with his 220 pounds weight, made him an intimidating presence on any ship he boarded. The thick, coal-black beard that he was known for added to his fearsome appearance. It's been reported that he would often tie slow-burning fuses into his beard, which, when lit, created a terrifying spectacle that struck fear into the hearts of his enemies. This, along with his penchant for tying slow matches (fuses used to light cannons) under his hat, contributed to his menacing image. However, it's important to note that much of what we know about Blackbeard is a mix of fact and folklore. The early life of Edward Teach is shrouded in mystery, with many details left to speculation. It is widely believed that he was born in or near London before 1690, but concrete evidence is scarce. Blackbeard's rise to infamy began around 1716 when he started his career as a privateer, which was essentially a legal form of piracy sanctioned by a government during wartime. He later turned to piracy and became the captain of the ship Queen Anne's Revenge. His reputation grew as he terrorized the waters of the West Indies and the eastern coast of Britain's North American colonies. The legend of Blackbeard is also intertwined with the tales of his tactical genius. He was known for his cunning strategies and the psychological warfare he used to subdue his opponents. For instance, he would often use the element of surprise and his fearsome appearance to intimidate enemy crews into surrendering without a fight. Despite his fearsome reputation, Blackbeard was also known to be a skilled navigator and a competent ship captain. His ability to evade capture for as long as he did was a testament to his maritime skills and the loyalty of his crew. In November 1718, Blackbeard's reign came to an end during a battle off the coast of North Carolina. He was killed in a fierce fight with Lieutenant Robert Maynard and his men, who were sent to capture or kill the notorious pirate. The battle was brutal, with Blackbeard reportedly receiving over twenty wounds before he finally fell. In conclusion, Edward Teach, or Blackbeard, was a man of considerable size and presence for the 18th century. His height, weight, and appearance, coupled with his strategic and navigational skills, made him one of the most feared pirates of his time. While much of his life story is steeped in myth and legend, the historical records paint a picture of a man who was indeed a giant in his own right. **read more >>

The real Blackbeard was born Edward Teach (or Thatch) in or near London before 1690. He was 6 feet 5 inches and weighed 220 pounds - an imposing figure with a thick, coal-black beard. Little is known of his early life.read more >>