Eli Boggs facts for kids

Eli Boggs was an American pirate who was active in the mid-1800s. He was one of the last pirates to operate in the open ocean near China. Based close to Hong Kong, Boggs often attacked clipper ships. These ships carried valuable goods during the 1850s.

Boggs was known for being very intimidating. He used harsh methods to warn others not to interfere with his activities.

The Life of a Pirate

Eli Boggs was a pirate during a time when piracy was becoming less common. He focused his attacks on ships sailing near the coast of China. These ships often carried important cargo.

A Fierce Battle at Sea

In 1857, Boggs was involved in a major battle. His ship, a type of Chinese sailing vessel called a junk, was destroyed by rival pirates. Boggs had to swim to shore to escape.

He managed to keep his attackers away with a knife. However, he was eventually caught. Boggs was then sent to a jail in Hong Kong.

Facing Justice

Eli Boggs was held in jail for three years. He was put on trial for his actions. In 1857, he was sent back to the United States.

During his trial, Boggs made a statement that caught the attention of George Wingrove Cooke. This statement led to an investigation. It uncovered an early political scandal in Hong Kong. The scandal involved a government official named Daniel Caldwell and another pirate, Ma Chow Wong, working together.

Eli Boggs passed away in 1861.