Francis Drake

Date of Birth: 1540-1544

Zodiac Sign: Unknown

Date of Death: January 28, 1596

Biography

Sir Francis Drake, born between 1540 and 1544, was an English sea captain, privateer, slave trader, naval officer, and explorer. He is best known for his circumnavigation of the globe between 1577 and 1580, which was the second such voyage in history. Drake’s exploits made him a hero to the English but a pirate to the Spanish, who referred to him as “El Draque” (The Dragon). He played a key role in the defeat of the Spanish Armada in 1588, cementing his place in British naval history. Drake’s adventurous spirit and naval prowess earned him a knighthood from Queen Elizabeth I in 1581.

5 Interesting Facts about Francis Drake

1. Sir Francis Drake was the first Englishman to circumnavigate the globe.

2. He was instrumental in the defeat of the Spanish Armada in 1588.

3. Drake was knighted aboard his ship, the Golden Hind, by Queen Elizabeth I in 1581.

4. Despite his naval achievements, Drake was also a notorious slave trader.

5. His circumnavigation of the globe significantly boosted England’s claims to new territories.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Francis Drake

1. “There must be a beginning of any great matter, but the continuing unto the end until it be thoroughly finished yields the true glory.”

2. “It isn’t that life ashore is distasteful to me. But life at sea is better.”

3. “Great things have small beginnings.”

4. “It is not the destination so much as the journey.”

5. “A voyage is like a gamble: you can win big or lose everything.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the height of his career, Sir Francis Drake amassed wealth that would be worth millions in today’s currency, although exact figures are not documented.