English sailor and privateer (c. 1540 – 1596)
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He sailed around the world, plundered Spain's American empire for Elizabeth I, and returned home rich enough to be knighted on his own ship. To the English, a privateer-hero; to the Spanish, El Draque — the pirate they couldn't catch.
Drake began as a seaman in the household of a Plymouth sea captain, took part in early English slaving voyages with his cousin John Hawkins, then launched his first independent privateering run along the Spanish Main in 1572. Five years later he set out on the voyage that changed everything: a circumnavigation begun 13 December 1577, crossing the Pacific — then Spanish water — plundering ports and ships, claiming New Albion, and arriving back in England on 26 September 1580 laden with treasure. Elizabeth I knighted him aboard the Golden Hind in 1581. His exploits kicked off open war with Spain…
Sourced, dated quotes from Francis Drake
Coming up unto them, there has passed some cannon shot between some of our fleet and some of them, and so far as we perceive they are determined to sell their lives with blows.
There must be a beginning of any great matter, but the continuing unto the end until it be thoroughly finished yields the true glory.
For by the life of God, it doth even take my wits from me to think on it.
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United Kingdom
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