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Questions and Answers
What was one of the key outcomes of Elizabeth's meeting with John Dee in 1577?
Who was the captain of the ship Golden Hind, which was pivotal in changing England's fortunes?
What role did Francis Drake hold prior to the Golden Hind expedition?
What led to England's increased interest in exploration during the late 16th century?
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In what year did John Dee present his vision for the British Empire to Elizabeth?
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What was the route Drake decided to take after reaching the Californian coast?
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What was the main reason for Humphrey Gilbert's attempts to establish a colony in North America?
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What significant action did Drake take in the Moluccas?
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What led to the disaster of Gilbert's first attempt to establish a colony in 1579?
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How was Drake perceived in England after his successful voyage?
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Study Notes
Emergence of Empires
- By the 1570s, the age of empires was in full swing; Portugal and Spain had established vast empires in the Americas.
- Portuguese exploration began in the 15th century, focusing initially on Africa's coast and then expanding into the Americas.
- England had a late start in exploration during Henry VII's reign, with early expeditions by John and Sebastian Cabot yielding limited developments.
John Dee's Vision
- In November 1577, John Dee presented a vision for "a British Empire" to Queen Elizabeth I.
- Dee proposed colonies in America, with trading links to China and the East Indies via northern routes.
- He asserted England's claim to America based on Cabot's voyages and legendary Welsh King Madog's discovery.
Francis Drake's Voyage
- Shortly after Dee's meeting, Francis Drake embarked on a significant voyage with the ship Golden Hind in December 1577.
- Drake, a privateer, targeted Spanish treasure ships, starting his journey off West Africa before hitting Brazil.
- He navigated through the Strait of Magellan, becoming the first Englishman to enter the Pacific.
North American Claim
- Drake reached the Californian coast in 1579, claiming it as "New Albion" for Queen Elizabeth.
- To avoid potential attacks from Spanish ships, he altered his route, sailing across the Pacific to return to England, acquiring valuable spices along the way.
Drake's Return and Recognition
- Drake returned to England in September 1580 with immense treasure, most of which was delivered to Elizabeth.
- In 1581, he was knighted on the Golden Hind, celebrated as a hero in England, while viewed as a pirate by Spain's Philip II.
Humphrey Gilbert's Ventures
- Humphrey Gilbert sought a northwest passage for trade with China, motivated by anti-Catholic sentiments.
- He received a charter from Elizabeth in 1578, allowing him to establish a colony in North America.
- Gilbert's initial attempt in 1579 was unsuccessful, but he later planned to claim significant territory for profit and military advantage against Spain.
Newfoundland Attempt and Failure
- Gilbert claimed Newfoundland in 1583 but faced harsh conditions and a lack of resources.
- Despite a warm reception from local fishermen, he failed to establish a sustainable colony.
- After a shipwreck and troubling conditions, Gilbert drowned when his vessel, the Squirrel, sank during a storm.
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Description
Explore the transformative period of the 1570s, when European powers established empires in the Americas. Delve into John Dee's vision for a British Empire, his proposals for colonial expansion, and the adventurous journey of Francis Drake. This quiz encapsulates the key explorations and ambitions that shaped the age of empires.
