Edward Teach was a ferocious buccaneer. He had a long black: beard, which was twisted into braids with ribbons and which hung down his chest like rats’ tails. He was a terrifying sight with his weather beaten face and braided beard. To frighten his enemies he put .burning matches under his hat and firecrackers in his beard. His nickname was Blackbeard.
Blackbeard sailed for Jamaica to begin his life as a buccaneer, leaving his wife and children behind in London. This did not sadden him at all. During his lifetime Blackbeard had fourteen wives.
He raided ships off the coast of America and lived in great luxury. His crew was well-rewarded with shares of booty, especially rum. Blackbeard preferred a stronger drink. He mixed gunpowder in his rum.