Monday, August 12, 2019
Biography of Walter Raleigh:
Sir Walter Raleigh (c. 1552 – October 29, 1618) was an English explorer, soldier, courtier, and writer, best known for his role in the early colonization efforts in North America and for popularizing tobacco in England. His life was marked by military service, exploration, and involvement in court politics during the Elizabethan era.
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| Biography of Walter Raleigh |
Key Points in Walter Raleigh's Biography:
1. Early Life of Walter Raleigh:
Walter Raleigh was born into a Protestant family in Devon, England, around 1552. Little is known about his early life, but he likely spent some time at Oxford before joining the military.
2. Military Service:
Raleigh gained military experience fighting in the Huguenot army in France and later served in the English army in Ireland during the Nine Years' War against the rebels.
3. Favor at Court:
Raleigh's charisma and intelligence caught the attention of Queen Elizabeth I, and he became a favorite at the Elizabethan court. He was granted estates and titles, including the title of "Sir."
4. Colonization Efforts:
Raleigh was an early supporter of English colonization in the New World. He sponsored expeditions to explore and establish settlements in North America, including the failed Roanoke Colony off the coast of present-day North Carolina.
5. Walter Raleigh's Introduction of Tobacco:
During his travels, Raleigh is credited with popularizing tobacco in England. He is said to have introduced smoking to the court and is often associated with the act of smoking a tobacco pipe.
6. Imprisonment and Release:
Despite his success at court, Raleigh faced periods of disgrace and imprisonment. His involvement in court intrigues and political rivalries led to his fall from favor.
He spent over a decade in the Tower of London on charges of treason but was released in 1616.
7. Second Voyage to Guiana:
In an attempt to restore his fortune and reputation, Raleigh undertook a second voyage to South America in search of the legendary city of El Dorado. The expedition was ultimately unsuccessful.
8. Execution of Walter Raleigh:
Raleigh's involvement in a plot against King James I led to his arrest in 1603. Although he was initially spared execution, he was sentenced to death in 1618 after an attack on the Spanish settlement of San Tomé in present-day Venezuela, which violated the terms of a peace treaty with Spain.
9. Literary Contributions:
In addition to his exploits in exploration and politics, Raleigh was a writer. He authored works such as "The History of the World," a comprehensive survey of world history.
10. Legacy:
Walter Raleigh's legacy is complex. While he is remembered for his contributions to exploration and literature, his involvement in court politics, his rivalry with other courtiers, and his eventual execution have contributed to the enigmatic nature of his historical reputation.
Walter Raleigh's life was marked by his multifaceted contributions to exploration, literature, and courtly affairs. His daring exploits in the New World and his role in shaping English cultural practices have left an enduring impact on history.