The Formation And Development Of The Pirate Republic Of New Providence

The Golden Age of Piracy lasted from 1650-1730, but reached its peak from 1716-1726. This peak’s timing coincides with the Pirate Republic of New Providence. The formation and development of the Pirate Republic of New Providence cemented the period known as the Golden Age of Piracy; likewise, its fall hastened the end of this era. Nassau, in particular, was a prime location for a pirate republic. The Bahamas were the on the main shipping route for European-bound boats from South America, Mexico, and the Caribbean. This would provide the pirates with a steady supply of ships to plunder. European nations had left the area relatively ungoverned since 1703. The pirates would not have to worry about imperial claims to the practically forgotten island. Nassau also had fertile ground, freshwater wells, and foodstuffs suitable for creating a base. Its harbor easily allowed a great deal of smaller vessels, but was too shallow for Royal Navy ships. The harbor’s size would prevent royal ships from following the pirates to their base. Once the pirates decided on Nassau as their base’s location, they began their preparations. Benjamin Hornigold and his men attacked Spanish vessels and plantations in regions of Florida and Cuba to acquire supplies. The treasure they brought to their newfound home of Nassau in 1713 held ten
In the late fall of 1714, Hornigold and two others captured a Cuban ship filled with valuables. Because of the immense wealth acquired it caught the attention of authorities. That following winter, fears of Spanish retaliation gained prominence. The majority decided to divide what they had stolen and leave the island. The few who remained, including Hornigold, found themselves lucky that the fears had never come to fruition. Eventually those who had left returned. The initial scare’s reaction would foreshadow later conflicts with imperial