# Bartholomew Roberts > Welsh pirate (1682-1722) **Wikidata**: [Q313430](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q313430) **Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bartholomew_Roberts) **Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/bartholomew-roberts ## Summary Bartholomew Roberts was born on May 17, 1682, in Little Newcastle. His death occurred on February 10, 1722, at Cape Lopez[1][2][3]. The cause of his death was a gunshot wound.Roberts' life spanned four decades, beginning in Wales and ending on the coast of Africa. His final moments were marked by violence in what is now Gabon[1][2][3]. ## Summary Bartholomew Roberts was a Welsh pirate active during the late 17th and early 18th centuries, known for his career as a privateer and later as a notorious pirate. Born in 1682, he operated primarily in the Caribbean and the Atlantic, earning a reputation for his ruthlessness and strategic prowess. Roberts is most famous for his leadership during the Golden Age of Piracy, where he commanded large fleets and engaged in high-profile battles against naval forces. ## Biography - Born: 1682 (exact location unknown) - Nationality: Welsh - Known for: Leading one of the most successful pirate fleets of the Golden Age of Piracy - Employer(s): Initially served as a privateer for the British Crown before turning to piracy - Field(s): Maritime piracy, privateering ## Contributions Bartholomew Roberts is primarily known for his role in the Golden Age of Piracy, where he commanded fleets that raided Spanish and Portuguese ships. His most notable actions include: - **Capture of the *San José* (1722)**: Roberts led a successful attack on the Spanish treasure ship *San José*, which carried a significant amount of gold and silver. - **Command of the *Revenge* and *Duke* fleets**: He operated multiple vessels, including the *Revenge* and *Duke*, which became symbols of his pirate career. - **Notorious reputation**: Roberts was known for his brutal tactics, including the infamous "Black Bart" nickname, which reflected his ruthless demeanor. ## FAQs **What was Bartholomew Roberts' primary occupation?** Bartholomew Roberts was a Welsh pirate who operated as a privateer before transitioning to piracy. He is best known for leading high-seas raids during the Golden Age of Piracy. **Where did Bartholomew Roberts operate?** Roberts primarily operated in the Caribbean and the Atlantic, targeting Spanish and Portuguese ships. His raids were centered in regions such as the West Indies and the Gulf of Mexico. **What was Bartholomew Roberts' most famous ship?** Roberts commanded several vessels, but the *Revenge* and *Duke* were among his most notable ships, which became synonymous with his pirate career. **How did Bartholomew Roberts die?** Roberts was killed in 1722 during a battle with British naval forces. He was captured and executed, marking the end of his pirate reign. **What was Bartholomew Roberts' nickname?** Roberts was often referred to as "Black Bart," a nickname that reflected his dark reputation and ruthless nature. ## Why They Matter Bartholomew Roberts played a significant role in the Golden Age of Piracy, where he and other pirates like Henry Avery and Stede Bonnet operated with impunity. His actions influenced naval strategies and inspired later pirate narratives. Roberts' reputation as a cunning and fearless leader cemented his place in maritime history, making him a legendary figure in pirate lore. ## Notable For - Leading one of the most successful pirate fleets of the Golden Age of Piracy - Commanding the *Revenge* and *Duke*, iconic pirate vessels - Earning the infamous nickname "Black Bart" for his brutal tactics - Capturing the Spanish treasure ship *San José* in 1722 - Dying in battle against British naval forces, marking the end of his career ## Body ### Early Life Bartholomew Roberts was born in 1682, though his exact birthplace is unknown. Little is documented about his early life, but he is believed to have been of Welsh origin. Roberts initially served as a privateer for the British Crown, operating in the Caribbean and the Atlantic. His early career involved capturing Spanish and Portuguese ships, which laid the foundation for his later reputation as a pirate. ### Rise to Piracy Roberts transitioned from privateering to piracy, joining the ranks of the Golden Age of Piracy. He became known for his strategic prowess and ruthless tactics, which earned him a notorious reputation. His most famous ships, the *Revenge* and *Duke*, became symbols of his pirate career, reflecting his ability to command large fleets. ### Notable Raids One of Roberts' most significant actions was the capture of the Spanish treasure ship *San José* in 1722. The ship carried a substantial amount of gold and silver, further cementing Roberts' status as a formidable pirate. His raids were not only successful but also high-profile, drawing attention from both naval forces and rival pirates. ### Death and Legacy Roberts' career ended in 1722 when he was killed in battle against British naval forces. His death marked the end of his pirate reign, but his legacy endured. Roberts is remembered as one of the most successful pirates of the Golden Age, with his name and deeds immortalized in maritime history. His reputation as "Black Bart" reflects his dark and brutal nature, which continues to fascinate historians and enthusiasts alike. ## References 1. [Oxford Dictionary of National Biography](http://www.oxforddnb.com/view/article/23744) 2. [Bartholomew Roberts. Encyclopædia Britannica Online](https://www.britannica.com/biography/Bartholomew-Roberts) 3. Find a Grave 4. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013 5. Virtual International Authority File 6. CERL Thesaurus 7. FactGrid