Empire Podcast Episode 199: "Robbing the World’s Wealthiest Dynasty"

Released on October 31, 2024

Hosts: William Dalrymple and Anita Anand
Description: How do empires rise? Why do they fall? And how have they shaped the world around us today?

Introduction

In Episode 199 of Empire, titled "Robbing the World’s Wealthiest Dynasty," hosts William Dalrymple and Anita Anand delve into the captivating and dark tale of Henry Avery, one of history's most notorious pirates. This episode explores Avery's transformation from a naval officer to the King of Pirates, his formation of an unprecedented pirate fleet, and his audacious heist against the Mughal Empire—the wealthiest dynasty of his time.

Henry Avery: From Naval Officer to Pirate

William Dalrymple (00:29):
"Hello, and welcome to Empire with me, Anita Anand, and me, William Dalrymple."

Anita Anand (00:34):
"Now, recently, we've been discussing pirates, haven't we?"

The hosts set the stage by addressing their recent discussions on piracy, highlighting figures like Blackbeard and William Kidd. They introduce Henry Avery as a particularly ruthless pirate whose legacy defies romanticization.

Anita Anand (00:58):
"This is the story of a very naughty pirate indeed, called Henry Avery... the story of organized crime... he pulls off the most extraordinary heist in piracy history."

Avery's early life is touched upon, revealing his harsh upbringing and naval career.

William Dalrymple (07:22):
"He was married and we know the name of his wife, Dorothy Arthur. Another long-suffering pirate wife."

The Mutiny and Rise to Leadership

A crucial turning point in Avery's life occurs after his discharge from the navy following the disastrous Battle of Beachy Head in June 1690. Facing uncertainty, Avery turns to the burgeoning Atlantic slave trade, engaging in deceitful practices that mark him as a particularly vicious figure.

Anita Anand (12:34):
"As a slaver, Avery seems to have been more devious than most... he lures slave traders onto his ship by flying friendly colors."

Avery's transition to piracy is marked by his participation in the expedition aboard the Charles II, where he leads a successful mutiny against a drunken captain, seizing control and renaming the ship the Fancy.

Anita Anand (13:21):
"They're in port and they're moored to the harbor in La Corunna... 'I am now the captain of this ship.'"

Formation of the Pirate Confederation

Avery's leadership skills shine as he garners loyalty from other pirate captains, forming the largest pirate fleet in history. This confederation is characterized by its diversity and formidable strength, positioning them to target the richest prize available.

William Dalrymple (27:40):
"Avery is elected admiral of this six-ship pirate flotilla."

Anita Anand (26:43):
"Not less than five other leading pirate captains join him... it's like the Italian Job with hyper criminals coming together for a big heist."

The Audacious Heist Against the Mughals

Avery sets his sights on the Mughal Empire's fleet, recognizing them as the most opulent and lucrative targets. The Mughal ships, laden with jewels and other valuables, present an irresistible prize.

Anita Anand (20:46):
"Henry Avery... aims his sights at the shipping of what is then not just the richest country in the world, but the ships of the richest man in the world."

Avery's strategic positioning at the Straits of Baal el Mandeb illustrates his tactical acumen, although he faces challenges such as maintaining unity among diverse pirate leaders and the ever-present threat of mutiny.

William Dalrymple (28:48):
"They have to keep their crews from turning against them while waiting in these treacherous waters."

After a lengthy and tense wait, Avery's fleet finally spots the Fath Mohammadi, a heavily armed Mughal merchant ship.

Anita Anand (34:11):
"At dawn they're waiting in position. They've managed because they're in this vast fleet."

In a swift and decisive maneuver, Avery unleashes a broadside that overwhelms the Mughal ship, leading to its surrender with minimal resistance.

Anita Anand (34:34):
"Avery immediately seizes his moment and he lets loose a broadside... the Fath Mohammadi just surrenders."

The haul from this encounter is monumental, equating to approximately £60,000 of silver and gold—modern estimates value this at around $5 million.

William Dalrymple (35:31):
"They have as much money as Avery could ever dream of—a retirement plan."

However, Avery's ambition doesn't stop there. Despite the massive success, the true target—the Mughal flagship Ganji Sawai—remains elusive, setting the stage for a dramatic continuation of his saga.

Anita Anand (36:21):
"Beyond them in the mist is Aurangzeb's flagship, the Ganji Sawai... the most heavily armored Mughal ship of them all."

Notable Quotes

• Anita Anand (02:03):
  "Never spoil a story."

• William Dalrymple (04:08):
  "The Great Train Robbery... some bad stuff went up."

• Anita Anand (07:20):
  "He is not a sort of good guy... a disgusting and terrible act."

• William Dalrymple (14:32):
  "The old captain is put out on a boat and cut adrift. Poor captain."

• Anita Anand (19:10):
  "He thinks of himself as a patriot... it's complete nonsense."

• William Dalrymple (27:36):
  "He's king of the pirates, Long Ben."

Conclusion and Tease for Part Two

As the episode concludes, Avery's relentless pursuit of the Ganji Sawai sets the stage for further high-stakes encounters. The hosts leave listeners eagerly anticipating the continuation of Avery's daring exploits in the next episode.

William Dalrymple (36:02):
"Join us next episode whenever you listen to your podcast, when you will hear what happens when he goes after the biggest prize in the fleet."

Final Thoughts

Episode 199 of Empire offers a gripping portrayal of Henry Avery, blending historical detail with engaging storytelling. Through insightful discussions and vivid narratives, Dalrymple and Anand illuminate the complexities of piracy and its intersection with global empires. This episode not only recounts Avery's legendary heists but also challenges the romanticized image of pirates, revealing the harsh realities behind their infamous reputations.

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