British Legends: The Life and Legacy of Sir Francis Drake

Includes a contemporary account of Drake's voyage around the world. Discusses the legends and controversies surrounding Drake's piracy and adventures. "There must be a beginning of any great matter, but the continuing unto the end, until it be thoroughly finished, yields the true glory." (Sir Francis Drake) The life of Sir Francis Drake, or, more precisely, the tale of it, is one of those prime examples that history is written by the winners. Drake was the most famous sailor of the Elizabethan era, and he has long been considered a hero by the English. His successes against the Spanish as a captain and a privateer were legendary, and Drake was celebrated for fighting the Queen's enemies, sinking their ships, and capturing the treasure that would otherwise be used to finance attacks on England. Drake vigorously pursued every mission given to him by Elizabeth I and brought all his skill, experience, and training to bear against her enemies. He was recognized at court for his valor, pra