The Pirate History Podcast Episode 367 - The Spanish Treasure Fleets
Sep 2, 2025
Explore the thrilling world of 16th-century piracy as a French marauder wreaks havoc on Spanish America. Discover how Spain responded with unprecedented advancements in ship design, creating the legendary galleon to safeguard its treasures. Delve into the exploits of notable pirates like Francois Leclerc, navigating a landscape rife with conflict and treachery. Uncover the strategic turning points in naval warfare, including Admiral Rook's game-changing encounter at Vigo Bay. It's a tale of ambition, danger, and the relentless pursuit of fortune!
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Rise Of Jean de Bois
- Francois Leclerc (Jean de Bois) built a fleet by capturing ships and recruiting crews through successive victories.
- He became famous for bravely leading assaults and for being the first well-known pirate with a wooden leg.
Brutal Raids In The West Indies
- Leclerc and Jacques de Sauray raided settlements across Hispaniola and Cuba, burning towns and desecrating churches.
- Jacques de Sauray later butchered 40 missionaries on the captured Santiago before disappearing from records.
Menendez's Strategic Overhaul
- Philip II appointed Pedro Menendez to reorganize and secure Spanish maritime defenses in the Americas.
- Menendez combined ship design and fortress-building to create a systemic defense for the treasure routes.
