Thomas Tew
the Rhode Island Pirate
American pirate and pioneer of the Pirate Round from the Americas around Africa and back. He sailed his first round in 1692 after the Governor of Bermuda gave him a letter of marque. Shortly after leaving port on the ship, Amity, he convinced his 46 crew members to turn pirate.
See also: letter of marque, Pirate Round, Thomas Tew's Flag