Final answer:
Sir Francis Drake was the most famous pirate and corsair who attacked Spanish ships and was protected by the English crown.
Step-by-step explanation:
The answer to your question is Sir Francis Drake. Sir Francis Drake was one of the most famous pirates and corsairs who attacked Spanish ships, ports, towns, and even a train loaded with Peruvian silver. He was protected by the English crown and was awarded knighthood for his successful missions. Drake's raids against Spanish ships, along with England's support of the secession of the Spanish Netherlands, led to the deployment of the Spanish Armada by Spain in 1588.