On 17 June 1579, English explorer and privateer Francis Drake landed on the west coast of North America during his historic circumnavigation of the globe. He claimed the territory for Queen Elizabeth I of England and named it New Albion.
The Voyage
Drake had sailed from England in 1577 on a mission that combined exploration with attacks on Spanish shipping in the Pacific. After raiding Spanish settlements and treasure ships along the western coast of South America, his ship, the Golden Hind, sailed northward seeking a route back to the Atlantic via the elusive Northwest Passage.
Landing in North America
Unable to find a passage, Drake anchored in a sheltered bay on the Pacific coast, believed by many historians to be near present-day Point Reyes National Seashore, north of San Francisco.
During his stay, which lasted several weeks:
- The crew repaired and refitted the Golden Hind.
- Drake met local Indigenous peoples.
- Religious ceremonies were conducted.
- A brass plate was reportedly erected claiming the land for England.
Why “New Albion”?
The name Albion is an ancient poetic name for Britain. Drake chose the name because the white cliffs and coastline reminded him of England's shores.
Historical Significance
- It represented England's first formal claim to territory on the Pacific coast of North America.
- Drake became the first Englishman to lead a successful circumnavigation of the world.
- His voyage challenged Spanish dominance in the Pacific and helped establish England as a major maritime power.
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