Summary of Drake’s circumnavigation of the globe

Embark on a legendary journey with Drake around the world.

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Drake’s circumnavigation of the globe in 10 Minutes

Introduction

Introduction

Join us on a thrilling adventure as we explore the epic global journey of Sir Francis Drake, the famous English explorer and privateer. From 1577 to 1580, Drake embarked on a historic circumnavigation of the globe, becoming the first Englishman to achieve such a feat.

Setting sail with a fleet of five ships, Drake's expedition was not only a daring voyage of exploration, but also a mission to disrupt Spanish dominance in the New World. Throughout his journey, Drake faced numerous challenges, including treacherous seas, hostile encounters with indigenous peoples, and fierce battles with Spanish ships.

As we delve into the details of Drake's circumnavigation, we will uncover the triumphs and tribulations of his historic voyage, as well as the lasting impact it had on European exploration and colonization. So, grab your compass and map, and join us as we chart a course through the incredible tale of Drake's epic global journey.

Sir Francis Drake

Sir Francis Drake

Sir Francis Drake was an English sea captain and explorer who led the first successful circumnavigation of the globe from 1577 to 1580. His journey was a historic feat that made him a national hero in England.

Queen Elizabeth I

Queen Elizabeth I

Queen Elizabeth I of England granted Drake the commission to undertake his circumnavigation voyage. She saw the potential for Drake's journey to expand English trade and influence around the world.

Thomas Doughty

Thomas Doughty

Thomas Doughty was a member of Drake's crew who was executed by Drake for alleged treason during the voyage. His death caused controversy and strained relations among the crew.

Francis Fletcher

Francis Fletcher

Francis Fletcher was the chaplain aboard Drake's ship, the Golden Hind. He documented the journey in his journal, providing valuable insights into the experiences of the crew during the voyage.

Juan Fernandez

Juan Fernandez

Juan Fernandez was a marooned sailor whom Drake encountered on an uninhabited island in the Pacific Ocean. Fernandez provided valuable information about the local geography and resources, helping Drake and his crew resupply and continue their journey.

Departure from England

Departure from England

In 1577, Sir Francis Drake set sail from Plymouth, England with a fleet of five ships. His mission was to circumnavigate the globe and raid Spanish ships along the way.

Passing through the Strait of Magellan

Passing through the Strait of Magellan

After battling storms and losing two ships, Drake navigated through the treacherous Strait of Magellan at the southern tip of South America. This was a significant milestone in his journey.

Exploration of the Pacific Ocean

Exploration of the Pacific Ocean

Drake and his crew spent months exploring the Pacific Ocean, encountering native peoples and unfamiliar wildlife. They also captured Spanish treasure ships, increasing their wealth and reputation.

Arrival in the Philippines

Arrival in the Philippines

After crossing the Pacific, Drake reached the Philippines in 1579. He traded with the locals and repaired his ships before continuing his journey westward.

Exploring the Spice Islands

Exploring the Spice Islands

Drake visited the Spice Islands, known for their valuable spices. He acquired more treasure and supplies before setting sail for home.

Crossing the Indian Ocean

Crossing the Indian Ocean

Drake and his crew sailed across the vast Indian Ocean, facing challenges such as hostile natives and dwindling supplies. Despite these obstacles, they pressed on.

Passing around the Cape of Good Hope

Passing around the Cape of Good Hope

After surviving storms and rough seas, Drake successfully rounded the Cape of Good Hope at the southern tip of Africa. The crew was one step closer to completing their epic journey.

Return to England

Return to England

After nearly three years at sea, Drake and his crew finally arrived back in England in September 1580. They were hailed as heroes and Drake was knighted by Queen Elizabeth I.

Impact of the Circumnavigation

Impact of the Circumnavigation

Drake's circumnavigation of the globe was a historic achievement, solidifying England's place as a major naval power. The voyage also brought back valuable treasures and increased knowledge of the world.

Legacy of Sir Francis Drake

Legacy of Sir Francis Drake

Drake's epic global journey cemented his legacy as one of the greatest explorers of his time. His daring exploits continue to inspire adventurers and historians to this day.

Overall, Drake's circumnavigation of the globe from 1577 to 1580 was a monumental achievement in the Age of Exploration. His journey not only solidified England's power and influence on the world stage, but it also opened new trade routes and expanded knowledge of the world's geography. Drake's daring and determination have left a lasting legacy in history.In conclusion, Drake's epic global journey was a testament to human curiosity, courage, and resilience. His navigation of uncharted waters and encounters with diverse cultures have inspired generations of explorers to push the boundaries of what is possible. Drake's voyage remains a remarkable feat that continues to captivate imaginations around the world.

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Lesson Details & Resources

In a Nutshell

  • What: Drake’s circumnavigation of the globe
  • When: 1577-1580
  • Who: Sir Francis Drake
  • Outcome: First Englishman to complete a circumnavigation; plundered Spanish ships and territories

Famous Figures in the Drake’s circumnavigation of the globe

  • Francis Drake

    Francis Drake was an English explorer and naval officer who led the first circumnavigation of the globe. He set sail from England in 1577 and returned in 1580, becoming the first Englishman to complete such a voyage.

  • Thomas Doughty

    Thomas Doughty was an English navigator and explorer who accompanied Francis Drake on his circumnavigation journey. However, he was accused of plotting mutiny against Drake and was eventually executed.

  • John Winter

    John Winter was a sailor who participated in Francis Drake's circumnavigation voyage. He later became the captain of the Elizabeth Bonaventure, one of the ships in Drake's fleet.

  • John Oxenham

    John Oxenham was an English sea captain and privateer who joined Francis Drake's expedition. He played a key role in capturing Spanish settlements on the Pacific coast of South America.

  • Francis Fletcher

    Francis Fletcher was an English clergyman who served as the chaplain aboard Francis Drake's ship, the Golden Hind. He documented the events of the circumnavigation journey in his journal.

Timeline of Drake’s circumnavigation of the globe

December 13, 1577

Drake sets sail from Plymouth, England

April 5, 1578

Drake's fleet reaches the coast of Brazil

April 15, 1578

Drake captures a Spanish ship, Nuestra Señora de la Concepción

April 15, 1578

Drake renames Nuestra Señora de la Concepción to Cacafuego

June 1578

Drake captures Spanish ships off the coast of Ecuador

June-July 1578

Drake and his fleet raid Spanish settlements in Peru

July 1578

Drake captures Spanish ships near Panama

August 20, 1578

Drake reaches the Pacific Ocean through the Strait of Magellan

September 1578

Drake's fleet suffers heavy damage in a storm off the coast of Chile

November 1578

Drake's fleet reaches the Moluccas (Spice Islands)

February 1579

Drake captures Spanish treasure ships near the Philippines

April-July 1579

Drake explores the Pacific coast of North America

June 17, 1579

Drake claims California for England and names it New Albion

July-September 1579

Drake's fleet crosses the Pacific Ocean

November 1579

Drake's fleet arrives in the Moluccas again

May-June 1580

Drake's fleet navigates around the Cape of Good Hope

July 22, 1580

Drake's fleet arrives in Sierra Leone

September 26, 1580

Drake's fleet returns to Plymouth, England

April 4, 1581

Drake is knighted by Queen Elizabeth I

Vocabulary List

Circumnavigation
Drake's voyage was a successful circumnavigation of the globe.
Explorer
Drake was an English explorer who undertook the circumnavigation.
Globe
Drake's circumnavigation covered the entire globe.
Voyage
Drake's circumnavigation was a long and challenging voyage.
Navigation
Accurate navigation was crucial for Drake during his circumnavigation.
Expedition
Drake's circumnavigation was an important expedition in history.
Sailors
Drake and his crew were skilled sailors during the circumnavigation.
Seafarers
Drake and his seafarers embarked on the historic circumnavigation.
Journey
Drake's circumnavigation was an incredible journey around the world.
Nautical
Drake relied on nautical charts and instruments for his circumnavigation.

Key Facts

This is the information used in the fact matching game

  • Drake's circumnavigation of the globe was the second successful voyage around the world, following the expedition led by Ferdinand Magellan.
  • Drake set sail on his circumnavigation journey aboard the ship named the Golden Hind.
  • Drake's expedition aimed to disrupt Spanish shipping routes and acquire wealth through piracy and privateering.

  • Drake departed from Plymouth, England, on December 13, 1577.
  • During his circumnavigation, Drake explored the western coast of South America, claiming it for England.
  • Drake sailed through the Strait of Magellan, the southern tip of South America, to enter the Pacific Ocean.

  • Drake's crew endured harsh conditions and extreme cold temperatures while crossing the Pacific Ocean.
  • During his voyage, Drake captured several Spanish ships, which greatly increased his wealth and fame.
  • Drake reached the Moluccas (Spice Islands) in the Pacific, where he acquired valuable spices to bring back to England.

  • Drake's circumnavigation voyage lasted approximately three years, from 1577 to 1580.
  • Drake became the first Englishman to complete a circumnavigation of the globe.
  • Upon his return to England, Drake was knighted by Queen Elizabeth I.

  • Drake's successful circumnavigation brought immense wealth to Queen Elizabeth I and investors in his expedition.
  • The circumnavigation voyage established Drake's reputation as a skilled navigator and a fearsome pirate.
  • Drake's circumnavigation contributed to the growing rivalry between England and Spain.

  • Drake's journey was accompanied by chronicler and geographer, Francis Fletcher.
  • Drake encountered indigenous peoples during his voyage, including interactions with Native Americans on the west coast of North America.
  • Drake's circumnavigation significantly disrupted Spanish trade and shipping routes in the Pacific.

  • Drake's exploits during the circumnavigation voyage made him a national hero in England.
  • Drake's circumnavigation journey paved the way for future English naval dominance and colonization efforts.

Analysis & Significance

Immediate Consequences

Drake’s circumnavigation of the globe marked a significant milestone in maritime exploration, solidifying England’s naval power and challenging the dominance of the Spanish Empire. It also sparked diplomatic tensions between England and Spain, leading to increased hostilities between the two nations.

Long-Term Impact

The successful voyage had lasting effects on global trade and colonization, as it opened new trade routes and territories for the English. Drake’s circumnavigation also contributed to the decline of the Spanish Empire’s dominance in the Americas, paving the way for England’s rise as a colonial power.

Cultural Significance Today

Drake’s circumnavigation of the globe is remembered as a symbol of courage, exploration, and determination. His legacy continues to inspire adventurers and historians, while also serving as a reminder of the complex historical relationships between nations and the impact of exploration on global politics.

Drake’s circumnavigation of the globe Games

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