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Israel Hands


Israel Hands was second-in-command under Edward Teach "Blackbeard". Hands was given command of David Herriot's ship the "Adventure" after Herriot was captured by Blackbeard in March 1718.

Hands was with Blackbeard in the attack and siege of Charlestown(Charleston), S.C. afterwards, Hands settled with Blackbeard near Oakracoke, N.C. in the town of Bath(Bathtown), N.C.

When Blackbeard was killed by Lt. Robert Maynard, Hands was captured and taken to Williamsburg, VA for trial. In exchange for immunity, Hands testified against the remaining crew and corrupt N.C. officials who had consorted with Blackbeard.

According to Daniel Defoe's "General History of the Robberies and Murders of the Notorius Pyrates", Hands is said to have died a begger in London. Defoe also wrote that Hands had been shot in the knee by Edward Teach, also known as Bleackbeard, after Teach fired at another crew member, striking Hands accidentally. Hands asked Blackbeard his meaning in this act, and Blackbeard's reply was, "That if he did not now and then kill one of them, they would forget who he was". Hear the tale of the "Demise of Blackbeard" from one that was there, Israel Hands.












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