Episode 4 of 4 of the story of the VOC ship the Batavia. In 1628, the largest Dutch East India Company return ship, the Batavia, was stranded on the Houtman Abrolhos Islands, off the coast of Western Australia. Help was on its way, but Sub-merchant Jeronimus Cornelisz planned to take the rescue ship and live as a pirate. He ordered the death of anyone who could thwart his plans. A group of survivors was led by soldier Wiebbe Hayes, who would defend themselves tooth and nail against attacks by the Onderkoopman. For more information about sources and music, check the website: https://www.defraggedhistory.com

In 1628, the largest Dutch East India Company return ship, the Batavia, was on its way to Batavia, VOC headquarters on Java in the Indies. She had over 300 souls on board and very valuable cargo. The Chief Merchant Francisco Pelsaert had reached the Company's headquarters and hoped that Governor General Jan Pieterszoon Coen would send help. Meanwhile, on the islands, the Submerchant Jeronimus Cornelisz made plans to capture the rescue ship and continue as a pirate. He gathered mutineers around him, but all others had to be eliminated.