When European sailing vessels commenced their journeys to investigate the vast oceans of the world during the Early Modern Period, they undertook ventures that came with enormous expenses and significant dangers. A notable illustration is the notorious initial circumnavigation steered by Ferdinand Magellan, which transpired between 20 September 1519 and 6 September 1522. Magellan departed with five ships and approximately 270 sailors, yet only one ship accomplished the voyage, returning with merely 19 survivors, absent of Magellan himself.
Though often termed the era of exploration, a more fitting label might be the era of exploitation. The finding of new territories, hitherto unfamiliar to Europeans, was a secondary objective of these journeys, with the main focus on trade. They pursued commodities such as valuable metals—gold, silver, copper—luxury items like silk, and, most importantly, spices. Expeditions led by individuals such as Vasco da Gama, Christopher Columbus, and Magellan were primarily aimed at dismantling the Arab monopoly on the overland spice trade from Asia to Europe. Later searches for a North-East or North-West passage aimed to identify a shorter, more direct route between Europe and Asia for trade.
These commercial undertakings demanded both political and financial support, requiring promotion on various fronts to persuade prospective investors. One of the most fervent advocates for English explorations to North America and the foundation of colonies, as part of an English Empire, was the geographer Richard Hakluyt.
John Dee had previously suggested the concept of a British Empire in a manuscript from 1570, advocating for English colonies in North America in his 1576 publication with some legendary history. However, Hakluyt elevated this notion significantly.
Richard Hakluyt hailed from a distinguished family in Herefordshire. He received his education at Westminster School and Christ Church College, Oxford, bolstered by financial assistance. Although destined for a conventional clerical vocation, a burgeoning enthusiasm for geography and exploration, sparked in his adolescence, shaped his path. This enthusiasm was ignited during a visit to his cousin, a collector of books, maps, and travel accounts. Motivated by Psalm 107 and his cousin’s discussions regarding the seas and lands, Hakluyt resolved to delve into knowledge and literature on geography if he had the opportunity to attend university.
During his time at university, he began examining voyages and discoveries. With backing from influential figures, Hakluyt committed his life to the research and documentation of geographical findings, championing English exploration and colonization. He garnered support from individuals like Sir Francis Walsingham and William Cecil for his geographical studies.
Throughout the years, Hakluyt amassed and translated countless travel narratives and published several key works promoting English exploration. His landmark publication, “The Principall Navigations,” encapsulated English travels and discoveries spanning 1500 years and advocated for the establishment of colonies.
Hakluyt was actively engaged in organizations focused on exploration and colonization, such as the Virginia Company, and he significantly impacted English maritime pursuits through his writings and advocacy, playing a pivotal role in England’s entry into a realm of ocean exploration, alongside mariners and navigational scholars.