Joseph Pitts (author)

Joseph Pitts (c. 1663 – c. 1739) was an English author known for his account of his experiences as an English captive in North Africa.

Born in Exeter, England, Pitts worked as a sailor. He was captured at sea in 1693 by Algerian pirates. Sold into slavery, he converted to Islam, adopting the name Hajji Yussuf. He served his various masters, including a period as a soldier in the Algerian army, travelling extensively throughout North Africa, including journeys to Mecca and Medina.

After approximately 15 years in captivity, Pitts returned to England, reputedly escaping in 1705. He later wrote a book detailing his adventures, A True and Faithful Account of the Religion and Manners of Mahometans, which was published in 1704 (though some sources indicate later editions may contain more accurate accounts, and that the 1704 version was largely compiled by another author based on Pitts's experiences). The book provides a rare, first-hand account of life in North Africa during the late 17th and early 18th centuries, and offers observations on Islamic customs and beliefs from the perspective of a former convert. Pitts's work is considered a valuable historical document, although its accuracy has sometimes been questioned. His perspective, colored by his conversion and later return to Christianity, offers a complex view of the Islamic world. The exact details of Pitts's life after his return to England are not fully known.