Overview
In the fifteenth century, Europe fully emerged from the Dark Ages and sent its explorers to all corners of the globe in search of trade and empire. Inevitably, these new world powers came into conflict with one another over economic, dynastic, and religious issues. In the midst of this upheaval, Francis Drake, motivated as much by his intense hatred of Catholic Spain as by his devotion to plunder and to his Protestant queen, Elizabeth I of England, etched a name for himself in the annals of naval history. Wade Dudley's penetrating look at this complex man serves as an introduction to Drake's life and provides a concise account of the religious and dynastic disputes that would affect Europe for the next three centuries.Synopsis
Chronicles the dramatic life of one of England's earliest naval heroes and the origins of British naval supremacy
Editorials
From the Publisher
"A useful introduction to a subject of enduring fascination and to the history of one of Europe's greatest seamen.""Admirably summarizes . . . Drake's role as Elizabethan naval hero and 'sea dog,' serving God and country in an era of war, conquest, exploration, and high adventure."
"This succinct biography of Sir Francis Drake is a marvelous introduction to both the man and the myth. Wade Dudley's knack for examining the totality of time and place within its historical setting provides the reader with a focused understanding of the events that influenced Drake's life and beliefs. A consummate storyteller, the author holds the reader's interest while teaching him to look at history with a fresh eye and urging him to explore the subject in more detail."