The single most memorable pirate story in Charleston, South Carolina, centers around Blackbeard's Blockade of Charleston in 1718. Here's a detailed recounting:
Blackbeard's Blockade: A Tale of Charleston's Peril
In May 1718
, Edward Teach, better known as Blackbeard, brought his pirate fleet to the Charleston harbor, effectively blockading the city. Using four ships mounting about sixty guns, 
Blackbeard and his crew stopped and plundered numerous vessels over a week. This was not just a simple act of piracy; it was a bold demonstration of power that humiliated Charleston, one of the most significant ports in the colonies at the time.
The Demands:
Blackbeard took several prominent citizens hostage, demanding a chest of medicine in exchange for their release. This was particularly crucial because many of his crew were suffering from venereal diseases, which were shared among pirates due to their lifestyle. The specific demand for mercury, believed to cure such ailments at the time, underscored the desperation of his crew.
The Ransom:
Charleston, eager to resolve the crisis and save the hostages' lives, complied with Blackbeard's demands. The medicine was delivered, and in exchange, Blackbeard released the hostages, though not before getting gloriously drunk in a Charleston tavern.
Aftermath:
Even after lifting the blockade, the incident left a lasting impact on Charleston. It highlighted the city's vulnerability to pirate attacks and spurred a significant response. Shortly after, South Carolina authorities intensified their efforts against piracy, leading to the capture and execution of several pirates, including Stede Bonnet, who had been part of the blockade.
This event is often cited for its audacity and the psychological impact it had on the city of Charleston. It's a story where the pirate's power was so palpable that it led to a direct negotiation for something as seemingly mundane as medicine, showcasing both the terror and the human side of piracy during the Golden Age.
The blockade is frequently discussed in historical tours, books, and local lore, making it a cornerstone of Charleston's pirate history.