What was the purpose of Sir Francis Drake's expeditions?

The purpose of Sir Francis Drake's expeditions was primarily to plunder Spanish treasure. Drake was a privateer and one of the first Englishmen to circumnavigate the globe. His voyages were motivated by the desire to challenge Spanish dominance on the seas, particularly during a time when Spain was the preeminent colonial power in the Americas. By attacking Spanish ships and settlements, Drake aimed to gain wealth, which he accomplished through his raids on treasure fleets returning from the New World.

This focus on treasure rather than establishing agricultural systems, trade routes to Asia, or colonization of Africa highlights the competitive maritime context of the late 16th century, where personal wealth and national prestige were often pursued through acts of piracy and privateering against rival powers. Thus, the goal of plundering Spanish treasure captures the essence of Drake's motivations and actions during his expeditions.