United States of America 18th Century (Individuals)
Notable and possible LGBTQIA+ individuals in the U.S.A. during the 18th century.
Possible LGBTQIA+ Individuals
Anne Bonny and Mary Ready
Anne Bonny (sometimes spelled Ann Bonny) and Mary Read were two women known to have been pirates during the early 18th century, sailing under the black flag in the Caribbean. Many sailors believed that women on ships brought bad luck, yet historical records mention multiple instances of women disguising themselves as men to take part in maritime life. Bonny and Read reportedly fought alongside pirates, showing skill in battle. Some sources describe them as fierce fighters who did not hesitate to wield cutlasses and pistols. However, the details of their lives are uncertain, as many stories about them come from sources known for exaggeration.
Mary Read was said to have been raised as a boy, which allowed her to take on roles typically reserved for men, including serving in the military. According to some accounts, she joined piracy after her ship was captured, later meeting Anne Bonny while serving under Captain John Rackham. Bonny, whose early life is less well-documented, also disguised herself as a man while aboard. One story claims Bonny initially believed Read to be male and only revealed her own identity after developing feelings for Read, prompting Read to do the same. The two fought together when their ship was attacked by the British Navy, reportedly resisting even as other crew members surrendered.
Both women were captured and sentenced to death for piracy, but their executions were delayed because they claimed to be pregnant. Mary Read is believed to have died in prison, while Anne Bonny’s fate remains unknown. Some speculate she was released, while others suggest she may have escaped or returned to a more conventional life. Regardless of the truth, their stories have endured, making them two of the most famous female pirates in history.
