Born: 1775
Died: 1844
Biography:
Zheng Yi Sao (1775–1844; born Shi Yang, a.k.a. Shi Xianggu), also known as Ching Shih, was a Chinese pirate leader active in the South China Sea from 1801 to 1810. Born as Shi Yang in 1775 to humble origins, she married a pirate named Zheng Yi at the age of 26 in 1801. She was named Zheng Yi Sao (wife of Zheng Yi) by the people of Guangdong.
After the death of her husband in 1807, she took control of his pirate confederation with the support of his adopted son Zhang Bao, with whom she entered into a relationship and later married. As the unofficial commander of the Guangdong Pirate Confederation, her fleet was composed of 400 junks and between 40,000 and 60,000 pirates in 1805.
Under her leadership, Zheng Yi Sao’s fleet became a formidable force, entering into conflicts with major powers such as the East India Company, the Portuguese Empire, and Qing China. Her pirates were known for their merciless attacks and successful looting of ships throughout the South China Sea.
In 1810, faced with mounting pressure from imperial forces and a desire for a peaceful life, Zheng Yi Sao negotiated a surrender to the Qing authorities. This agreement allowed her and Zhang Bao to retain a substantial fleet and avoid prosecution. At the time of her surrender, she personally commanded 24 ships and over 1,400 pirates.
Following her retirement from piracy, Zheng Yi Sao settled in Guangdong and lived a relatively peaceful and prosperous life until her death in 1844 at the age of about 68. Her strong leadership, strategic abilities, and successful career as a pirate have earned her the title of one of history’s most successful pirates and the most successful female pirate.
Zheng Yi Sao’s story is not only one of maritime adventure but also one that challenges traditional gender roles. In a male-dominated society, she defied expectations and proved that women could be just as capable and successful as men in leadership positions. Her achievements opened doors for future generations of women, inspiring them to embrace their potential and challenge societal norms.