In the early 18th century, piracy flourished along the American colonies, with Edward Teach, better known as Blackbeard, emerging as one of the most notorious pirates of the era. With his fearsome reputation and commanding presence, he became a symbol of piracy, terrorizing both merchant ships and coastal settlements. In response to increasing piracy, the Royal Navy intensified its efforts to eradicate pirate activity in the waters off North Carolina. Royal Navy Lieutenant Robert Maynard was assigned to confront this growing threat and set out with two sloops, determined to capture or eliminate Blackbeard and his crew.

On November 22, Maynard located Teach's ship, the Adventure, anchored near Ocracoke Inlet. After a fierce exchange of cannon fire, Maynard decided to use a clever ruse. He ordered his crew to hide below decks, making it appear that they had been severely damaged. When Teach approached to board the seemingly crippled vessel, Maynard's men sprang into action, launching a surprise counterattack. The ensuing battle was fiercely fought, resulting in multiple injuries and fatalities for both sides.

The engagement concluded with Lieutenant Maynard emerging victorious, having killed Blackbeard in a brutal hand-to-hand confrontation. This decisive battle not only brought fame to Maynard but also contributed significantly to the decline of piracy in the region. Teach's death marked the end of an era, as it symbolized the increasing effectiveness of naval forces against piracy in the Americas and helped to restore some level of order in colonial trade routes.