Thomas Wake (pirate)

Thomas Wake was a pirate active in the Caribbean during the early 18th century, specifically around the 1720s. Information about Wake is scarce and often conflated with details surrounding other pirates of the era. He is primarily known for his association with Bartholomew Roberts' pirate crew.

Wake served under Roberts for a period, participating in various raids and plunderings. His specific role within the crew is not consistently documented, but he was likely a skilled seaman and fighter given the typical requirements for pirates serving under successful captains like Roberts.

Following Roberts' death in 1722, Wake, along with many other members of Roberts' crew, was captured by the Royal Navy. The crew was subsequently tried for piracy. Records indicate that Thomas Wake was tried and convicted, facing the death penalty for his crimes. He was hanged in the Caribbean, likely in 1723, along with numerous other members of Roberts' former crew.

Due to limited primary source materials, biographical details about Thomas Wake beyond his association with Roberts and his subsequent trial and execution remain elusive. His historical significance lies primarily in his connection to one of the most successful pirates of the Golden Age of Piracy.