Stede Bonnet (c. 1688 – December 10, 1718) was an English pirate from Barbados, known by the nickname “the Gentleman Pirate.” 🏴‍☠️ Unlike most of his contemporaries, he had no prior maritime experience. 🌊 Before turning to piracy, he was a wealthy landowner and an officer in the local militia. ⚔️ In 1717, he purchased his own ship, the Revenge, an unusual move among pirates who typically seized their vessels. 🚢 Bonnet was also known for paying his crew regular wages rather than dividing loot