Dive into the tumultuous world of 16th-century England with Laurence Bergreen’s “In Search of a Kingdom: Francis Drake, Elizabeth I, and the Perilous Birth of the British Empire.” More than just a biography, this gripping narrative unveils the complex relationship between the daring privateer Sir Francis Drake and the shrewd Queen Elizabeth I, revealing how their intertwined ambitions shaped the destiny of England and the world. Bergreen paints a vivid portrait of Drake, a master navigator, ruthless raider (known as “El Draque” by the Spanish), and brilliant strategist. Explore his audacious circumnavigation of the globe, a feat of exploration and defiance that challenged Spanish dominance. Discover how his plundering of Spanish galleons fueled Elizabeth’s vision of a global empire and provided vital resources for England’s growing power. The author masterfully portrays Drake’s tactical genius in his crucial role in defeating the Spanish Armada. “In Search of a Kingdom” is an adventure that provides unique insight into the birth of the British Empire. Perfect for fans of maritime history, Tudor England, and tales of exploration and conquest, this book will transport you to a time of high seas, political intrigue, and the clash of empires. Discover a new perspective on the legendary figures who shaped the course of history.
In Search of a Kingdom: Francis Drake, Elizabeth I, and the Perilous Birth of the British Empire
22,69 $
In stock
FASCINATING . . . Dramatic and timely. New York Times Book Review, Editors’ Choice
In this grand and thrilling narrative, the author of the 200,000-copy paperback bestseller Over the Edge of the World reveals the singular adventures of Sir Francis Drake, whose mastery of the seas during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I changed the course of history.
Entrancing . . . Very good indeed. Wall Street Journal
Before he was secretly dispatched by Queen Elizabeth to circumnavigate the globe, or was called upon to save England from the Spanish Armada, Francis Drake was perhaps the most wantedand successfulpirate ever to sail. Nicknamed El Draque by the Spaniards who placed a bounty on his head, the notorious red-haired, hot-tempered Drake pillaged galleons laden with New World gold and silver, stealing a vast fortune for his queenand himself. For Elizabeth, Drake made the impossible real, serving as a crucial and brilliantly adaptable instrument of her ambitions to transform England from a third-rate island kingdom into a global imperial power.
In 1580, sailing on Elizabeths covert orders, Drake became the first captain to circumnavigate the earth successfully. (Ferdinand Magellan had died in his attempt.) Part exploring expedition, part raiding mission, Drakes audacious around-the-world journey in the Golden Hind reached Patagonia, the Pacific Coast of present-day California and Oregon, the Spice Islands, Java, and Africa. Almost a decade later, Elizabeth called upon Drake again. As the devil-may-care vice admiral of the English fleet, Drake dramatically defeated the once-invincible Spanish Armada, spurring the British Empires ascent and permanently wounding its greatest rival.
The relationship between Drake and Elizabeth is the missing link in our understanding of the rise of the British Empire, and its importance has not been fully described or appreciated. Framed around Drakes key voyages as a window into this crucial moment in British history, In Search of a Kingdom is a rousing adventure narrative entwining epic historical themes with intimate passions.
| Authors | |
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| Binding | |
| Condition | |
| ISBN-10 | 0062875361 |
| ISBN-13 | 9780062875365 |
| Language | |
| Pages | 464 |
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| Year published | |
| Weight | 354 |
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