Birthdate: 1540 AD
Birthplace: Tavistock, Devon, England
Died: January 28, 1596
Sir Francis Drake, an English explorer and privateer, achieved fame for his voyage around the world from 1577 to 1580. He engaged in slaving expeditions and battled the Spanish Armada. Starting as a seaman, Drake later conducted privateering operations in the Caribbean. His global journey sparked tensions with Spain, ultimately sparking the Anglo-Spanish War. Knighted by Queen Elizabeth I, he also served as a Member of Parliament. While celebrated as a hero in England, the Spanish viewed Drake as a pirate.
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