The Most Successful Pirate in History: The Untold Story of Ching Shih

The Forgotten Pirate Queen! Ching Shih was a notorious pirate who terrorized the South China Sea in the early 19th century. Born in Guangdong, China, in 1775, Ching Shih became a prostitute at a young age and was eventually taken as a wife by the notorious pirate Cheng I, who controlled a fleet of junks and had tens of thousands of followers.

When Cheng I died in 1807, Ching Shih took over his pirate empire, which included hundreds of ships and tens of thousands of men. Under her leadership, the pirate fleet became one of the most powerful in history, with Ching Shih personally overseeing the operations of over 300 junks and more than 20,000 pirates.

But Ching Shih was not just a ruthless pirate – she was also a savvy businesswoman. She established a strict code of conduct for her crew, which included rules against stealing from the locals and treating captives with respect. She also set up a complex system of revenue sharing and invested in legitimate businesses, including gambling houses and brothels.

Ching Shih’s pirate empire was so successful that the Chinese government offered her a pardon in exchange for retiring from piracy. Ching Shih accepted the offer and retired with her vast fortune, becoming a successful businesswoman and respected member of society.

Despite her incredible achievements, Ching Shih’s story has largely been forgotten by history, much like Anne Bonney. She is often overshadowed by male pirates such as Blackbeard and Calico Jack, but her legacy as the most successful pirate in history is undeniable.

Ching Shih’s story is a testament to the power of women in history and the importance of recognizing their contributions. By shedding light on forgotten figures like Ching Shih, we can broaden our understanding of history and appreciate the diverse perspectives that have shaped our world.