Captain Thunderbolt was a notorious Australian bushranger, whose real name was Frederick Ward. He led a gang that terrorized the countryside, committing crimes such as robbing banks and stealing horses. Thunderbolt was known for his ability to evade authorities and his charisma. He became a bushranger in 1863, after being involved in petty crimes, and took over the Thunderbolt Gang after the death of its previous leader, Ben Hall. Thunderbolt’s legend only grew after his death in 1870, becoming a symbol of rebellion for many Australians. His crimes and capture represent an important part of Australia’s history.
The Crimes and Capture of Captain Thunderbolt, Australia’s Most Wanted Bushranger
Captain Thunderbolt, whose real name was Frederick Ward, was one of the most notorious bushrangers in Australia during the mid-1800s. He was known for his daring escapes, his ability to evade authorities, and his charismatic personality. Thunderbolt ran a gang of bushrangers that terrorized the countryside, robbing banks, stealing horses, and committing other crimes.
Early Life of Captain Thunderbolt
Frederick Ward was born in Windsor, New South Wales, in 1835. He grew up with a love of horses and spent much of his youth working with them. He became an expert horse breeder and trainer, and his skills with horses would later become essential in his life as a bushranger.
While working as a horse dealer in the New England region of New South Wales, Ward became involved in petty crimes. He was arrested and sentenced to six months in jail. After his release, he returned to the region and resumed his criminal activities.
Life as a Bushranger
Ward became a bushranger in 1863 when he joined a gang led by the notorious bushranger, Ben Hall. After Hall was killed by police in 1865, Ward took over the gang and became the leader of a group of bushrangers known as the “Thunderbolt Gang.”
The Thunderbolt Gang became one of the most feared criminal organizations in Australia. They robbed banks, stole horses, and committed other crimes throughout New South Wales and Queensland. Thunderbolt also became known for his ability to evade capture. He was said to be able to outrun a horse and used this skill to avoid the police.
Capture and Death
Despite his success as a bushranger, Thunderbolt’s luck eventually ran out. In May 1870, he was ambushed and shot dead by police near Uralla, NSW.
After Thunderbolt’s death, his legend only grew stronger. He became a folk hero and a symbol of rebellion for many Australians. His story was immortalized in numerous books, songs, and films.
FAQs about Captain Thunderbolt
Q: Was Captain Thunderbolt a real person?
A: Yes, Captain Thunderbolt (Frederick Ward) was a real person. He was a notorious bushranger in Australia during the mid-1800s.
Q: What crimes did Captain Thunderbolt commit?
A: Captain Thunderbolt and his gang committed a number of crimes, including bank robberies, horse theft, and other thefts.
Q: How did Captain Thunderbolt evade capture for so long?
A: Captain Thunderbolt was an expert horseman who was able to outrun the police. He also had a network of supporters who would help him hide from the law.
Q: How did Captain Thunderbolt die?
A: Captain Thunderbolt was shot dead by police near Uralla, NSW, in May 1870.
Conclusion
Captain Thunderbolt was one of Australia’s most notorious bushrangers. His life of crime was filled with daring escapes and daring heists. Despite his outlaws status, he became a folk hero and remains an important figure in Australia’s history. His crimes and capture represent an important chapter in Australia’s identity and provide insight into the country’s early development.
