Sir Francis Drake: Life and Exploits

Sir Francis Drake, born in 1540, was a pivotal figure in English history, rising from humble beginnings to become a renowned naval commander, privateer, and politician. He played a crucial role in England's ascent to global prominence during the Elizabethan era. Drake's early naval career saw him quickly rise through the ranks, and he became famous for his daring raids on Spanish ships. His circumnavigation of the globe from 1577 to 1580 was a remarkable feat that established England as a major naval power. Despite controversies, including accusations of piracy, Drake's legacy as a pioneer of exploration and a symbol of English resistance to Spanish dominance endures.

Where was Sir Francis Drake born?

• Tavistock, Devon

• Bristol

• Plymouth

• London

At what age did Drake become a captain in the Navy?

• 23

• 25

• 21

• 27

What was the primary goal of Drake's first major expedition in 1567?

• To search for riches and adventure

• To find a new trade route

• To map the coastline

• To establish a colony

Which monarch granted Drake a license to attack Spanish ships?

• King Henry VIII

• Queen Mary I

• King James I

• Queen Elizabeth I

What was Drake's most famous exploit?

• Establishing a colony in Virginia

• Defeating the Spanish Armada

• Raiding the Spanish Port of Cadiz

• Circumnavigating the globe

Which ship did Drake use for his circumnavigation of the globe?

• The Mayflower

• The Golden Hind

• The Victory

• The Santa Maria

What role did Drake play in the defeat of the Spanish Armada?

• He was a diplomat

• He was the fleet's navigator

• He was the vice admiral

• He was a shipbuilder

In which year did Drake establish the first English colony in what is now California?

• 1577

• 1583

• 1581

• 1579

How did the Spanish view Drake's attacks on their ships and ports?

• As acts of war

• As acts of piracy

• As trade negotiations

• As diplomatic missions

Where was Sir Francis Drake buried after his death in 1596?

• In London

• In Tavistock, Devon

• In Plymouth

• At sea off the coast of Panama