3. Black Sam
Mentions – 2
Wealth – 10 ($120 million)
Total – 12 points
Born in the late 1600s, Captain Samuel Bellamy made a name for himself as Black Sam. Although his career as a pirate captain lasted just a little over a year, he was one of the most successful buccaneers to ever set sail, amassing a wealth estimated by Forbes at some $120 million. How was that possible? Well, during his short stint as a pirate of the seas, Black Sam captured at least 53 ships.
Other than his reputation as one of the most successful pirates in history, Black Sam was also often named the “Prince of Pirates” because he always showed mercy and generosity towards those he captured in his raids.
Much like Blackbeard, Black Sam started his journey as a pirate alongside Benjamin Hornigold’s crew and later sailed with Blackbeard himself on the Marianne.
His wealth was not enjoyed, however, as the ship he was on, the Whydah, was a victim of a violent storm off Cape Cod as Black Sam tried to reach his family. All but two of the 145-man crew was washed ashore days later.
