Sir Martin Frobisher: Seaman, Soldier, Explorer

Sir Martin Frobisher: Seaman, Soldier, Explorer

by Taliesin Trow

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	7214 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	216 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Sir Martin Frobisher (c. 1535 – 1594) was a renowned English seaman, soldier, and explorer who played a significant role in the exploration and colonization of North America. Born in Altofts, Yorkshire, Frobisher embarked on a series of ambitious voyages in search of the Northwest Passage, a mythical sea route to the Pacific Ocean.

Early Life and Career

Frobisher was born into a wealthy family in Altofts, Yorkshire. Little is known about his early life, but it is believed that he received a good education and training in navigation. Frobisher began his maritime career as a privateer, attacking and plundering Spanish ships during the Anglo-Spanish War.

In 1554, Frobisher joined the expedition of Sir John Hawkins to the coast of West Africa. The expedition was a disaster, with many of the ships lost or captured. Frobisher, however, survived and gained valuable experience in seafaring.

Search for the Northwest Passage

In the 16th century, the Northwest Passage was a mythical sea route that was believed to connect the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans via the Arctic. Many explorers, including Frobisher, believed that the Northwest Passage would provide a faster and more convenient route to the riches of Asia.

In 1576, Frobisher led his first expedition in search of the Northwest Passage. The expedition consisted of three ships: the Gabriel, the Michael, and the Aid. Frobisher sailed north along the coast of Labrador and entered the Frobisher Bay, which he named after himself.

Frobisher believed that he had found the Northwest Passage, but he was mistaken. The Frobisher Bay was actually a dead end. Despite his failure to find the Northwest Passage, Frobisher returned to England a hero. He had brought back a cargo of black ore, which was believed to contain gold. This false discovery led to a second expedition in 1577.

The second expedition consisted of 15 ships and over 1,000 men. Frobisher sailed back to Frobisher Bay and established a settlement on the shore. The settlement was named Fort Frobisher and was intended to be a base for further exploration. However, the settlement was soon abandoned due to harsh weather conditions and lack of supplies.

Frobisher's third and final expedition in search of the Northwest Passage took place in 1578. The expedition consisted of 15 ships and over 500 men. Frobisher sailed north to Baffin Island and entered the Hudson Strait. However, the strait was blocked by ice, and Frobisher was forced to turn back.

Later Career

After his failed attempts to find the Northwest Passage, Frobisher continued to serve as a seaman and soldier. In 1585, he was appointed vice-admiral of the English fleet. He participated in the Battle of Gravelines against the Spanish Armada in 1588. Frobisher was knighted for his bravery in the battle.

In 1594, Frobisher was killed in action while leading an expedition to the Azores. He was buried at sea.

Legacy

Sir Martin Frobisher was one of the most important English explorers of the 16th century. He made three voyages in search of the Northwest Passage, and although he failed to find the route, he explored vast areas of the Arctic and brought back valuable information about the region.

Frobisher Bay, Frobisher Strait, and Frobisher Island in Canada are all named after him. His explorations helped to pave the way for future English expeditions to North America.

Sir Martin Frobisher: Seaman, Soldier, Explorer

by Taliesin Trow

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	7214 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	216 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE