Empire
199. Robbing the World’s Wealthiest Dynasty
Oct 31, 2024
Discover the captivating tale of Henry Avery, a former naval officer turned pirate who pulled off an ambitious heist against the Mughal Empire. Delve into the complexities of piracy, contrasting its glamorous portrayals with the grim realities faced by those involved. Explore the legendary myth of Long Ben, a figure of intrigue and duality within the pirate world. The podcast also navigates the treacherous pilgrimage paths from India to Mecca, revealing how piracy lurked even in spiritual journeys. Get ready for tales of daring adventures and immense treasures!
42:34
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Quick takeaways
- Henry Avery's audacious heist against the Mughal merchant ship exemplified the perilous reality of piracy, challenging its romanticized portrayal in popular culture.
- Avery's transition from navy officer to infamous pirate leader highlights how geopolitical tensions and lucrative trade routes fueled the rise of piracy in the 17th century.
Deep dives
The Extraordinary Heist of Henry Avery
Henry Avery, known by various aliases, pulled off the largest heist in piracy history, amassing more wealth than any previous pirate. His successful theft involved attacking a heavily laden Mughal merchant ship called the Fat Mohammadi, which was owned by one of the wealthiest traders at the time. This heist not only demonstrated Avery's cunning and audacity but also sparked a global manhunt led by the East India Company, showcasing the significant fallout of his actions. Despite this massive pursuit, Avery managed to evade capture, with most of his crew being apprehended while he remained at large.
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