Sir Francis Drake
Francis Drake and his ship the Golden Hind circumnavigated the world in 1580. He had left England on December 13, 1577, with numerous ships and many men. The Golden Hind, the only ship to return, was loaded with treasure, and Queen Elizabeth’s half of the cargo was greater than all her other income that year. He was knighted for his efforts. Children could read You Wouldn’t Want to Explore with Sir Francis Drake, by David Stewart and David Salariya.
Ferdinand Magellan
Ferdinand Magellan and his ships entered the Strait of Magellan in 1520. The strait offers challenges to navigators due to narrow channels, high winds, and strong currents. He had begun his voyage that would take his ship around the world on September 20, 1519. He left with five ships and around 265 men. He died before the voyage was over, but the ship Vittoria and about eighteen men did complete the journey on September 6, 1522. Children could read Who Was Ferdinand Magellan? by S. A. Kramer.