Thomas Tew
- Born:
- Approx. 1649, Rhode Island, British America (exact location uncertain)
- Died:
- September 1695, Red Sea, near Mandeb Strait
- Nationality:
- English (Colonial American)
- Profession(s):
- Privateer, Pirate
Early Life and Education
- Details of Tew's early life are scarce. He was likely born in Rhode Island.
- He possibly had legitimate merchant seafaring experience before engaging in piracy.
Career and Major Achievements
- Commissioned as a privateer by the Governor of Bermuda in 1692.
- Successfully targeted a large Mughal ship in 1693, yielding a significant treasure.
- His success encouraged others to turn to piracy, contributing to the "Pirate Round".
- Returned to piracy in 1694 despite having initially retired.
- The history of Thomas Tew is intertwined with the rise of piracy in the Indian Ocean during the late 17th century.
- Offered a post in the security forces in Madagascar by Adam Baldridge, although this offer was not followed through.
Death
- Killed in September 1695 during an attack on another Mughal ship in the Red Sea. Accounts vary; some say he was disemboweled by a cannonball, others that he was mortally wounded by musket fire.
Legacy and Impact
Thomas Tew's brief but lucrative pirate career played a significant role in popularizing the Pirate Round, inspiring others to seek their fortunes in the Indian Ocean. He remains a notable figure in the golden age of piracy.