Seaman and navigator who started his career as a pirate, raiding Spanish treasure ships in the Caribbean. Supported by Elizabeth I, Drake crossed the Pacific in the Golden Hind, resulting in the first round-the-world voyage by an Englishman (1577-80).

He played a leading part in the defeat of the Spanish Armada in 1588. It is said that Drake heard of the Armada's approach while playing bowls on Plymouth Hoe and calmly ordered his ships to prepare to sail and continued his game.