How important were the voyages of discovery in making Britain great? - Teacher notes

The voyages of discovery carried out by the earliest British sailors were pivotal in laying the foundations for what would eventually become the British Empire. These explorations, embarked upon during a period of intense rivalry with maritime powers such as Spain, were instrumental in asserting Britain's presence on the global stage. The significance of these journeys lies not only in the territorial claims made on foreign lands but also in the transportation of valuable natural resources, like spices, back to England, which fuelled the nation's wealth and influence.

Students studying this unit will delve into the impact of the three most renowned explorers of the era: Sir Francis Drake, Sir John Hawkins, and Sir Walter Raleigh. Understanding the contributions of these figures is essential to grasping the overall importance of the voyages of discovery. By researching and writing brief outlines of each explorer's role, pupils will gain insight into the strategic and economic factors that spurred the creation of the British Empire and how these voyages significantly contributed to Britain's rise as a great power.