* Established England as a major naval power. Drake's successful circumnavigation of the globe demonstrated England's ability to compete with the leading maritime powers of the time, Spain and Portugal.
* Opened up new trade routes. Drake's voyage established a direct trade route between England and the Pacific Ocean, which allowed England to trade with Asia and the Americas without having to go through the Middle East or around Africa.
* Weakened Spain's power. Drake's attacks on Spanish ships and settlements in the New World weakened Spain's control over its empire and helped to pave the way for England's eventual victory in the Anglo-Spanish War (1585-1604).
* Inspired future explorers. Drake's voyage inspired other English explorers, such as John Davis, Walter Raleigh, and Henry Hudson, to explore the New World.
* Established England's claim to North America. Drake's landing in California established England's claim to the western coast of North America, which eventually became part of the United States.