François le Clerc, known as "Jambe de Bois" or "Peg Leg," hailed from Normandy and possessed a daring and audacious style.

He was notorious for being the first to board enemy vessels during attacks and raids. However, it was this bold approach that ultimately cost him a leg and severe damage to one arm while fighting the English at Guernsey in 1549.

While such an injury would have ended the careers of many pirates, le Clerc refused to retire.

Instead, he expanded the scope of his piracy by financing the voyages and attacks of other pirates.

Despite his wounds, le Clerc led major raids against the Spanish, earning the nickname "Pie de Palo" or "Peg Leg" from his adversaries.

He is credited as the first pirate in the modern era to sport a peg leg.

In 1553, le Clerc assumed overall command of seven pirate vessels and three royal ships, including his own, commanded by Jacques de Sores and Robert Blundel.

During the same year, he launched a successful attack on the port of Santa Cruz de La Palma in the Canary Islands, looting and setting it ablaze, causing extensive destruction.