As a maritime historian with a deep interest in the Golden Age of Piracy, I am often asked about the authenticity of historical figures like Avery. To address the question of whether Avery was a real pirate, it's essential to delve into the historical context and the known facts about this enigmatic figure.

The name "Avery" is often associated with the pirate known as "Captain Every" or "Long Ben" Every, who was a notorious pirate active during the late 17th century. The confusion between the names "Avery" and "Every" may stem from the fact that historical records can be inconsistent, and the true identity of some pirates remains shrouded in mystery.

Henry Every, the pirate in question, is best known for his daring attack on the Ganj-i-Sawai, a treasure-laden ship belonging to the Grand Mughal of India, in September 1695. This audacious act made Every one of the most infamous pirates in history and earned him a significant bounty on his head.

Little is known about Every's early life. It is believed that he went to sea at a young age and may have served in the Royal Navy before turning to piracy. His early career as a slave trader in the early 1690s is also documented, although the details of this period are scant.

Every's rise to infamy began when he joined a pirate crew under the command of Captain Benjamin Hornigold. He quickly distinguished himself and eventually became a captain in his own right. His most famous exploit was the capture of the Ganj-i-Sawai, which was part of a Mughal convoy returning from the Red Sea. The ship was laden with immense wealth, and Every's successful heist made him a legend among pirates and a target for the authorities.

After the Ganj-i-Sawai incident, Every disappeared from the historical record. Some accounts suggest that he retired to the Bahamas with his loot, while others claim that he continued to sail under a different name. The uncertainty surrounding his fate has only added to the mystique of his persona.

The story of Henry Every is a fascinating chapter in the history of piracy. His actions, while ruthless and illegal, were part of a larger narrative of maritime lawlessness during the late 17th century. The Golden Age of Piracy was a time when the seas were filled with adventurers, opportunists, and outcasts seeking fortune and freedom.

In conclusion, the pirate known as "Avery" is indeed a real historical figure, more accurately referred to as Henry Every. His exploits, particularly the attack on the Ganj-i-Sawai, cemented his place in the annals of pirate lore. While much about his life remains a mystery, the impact of his actions on the history of piracy is undeniable.

read more >>

On September 7, 1695, Englishman Henry Every led a pirate fleet against the Ganj-i-Sawai, a massive treasure ship owned by the Grand Mughal of India. ... Little is known about Every's early life. He went to sea at a young age, and may have served in the Royal Navy before working as a slave trader in the early 1690s.Sep 4, 2015read more >>