Exploration:
* Sir Francis Drake's circumnavigation of the globe (1577-1580): This was a major achievement, establishing England as a major maritime power and opening up new trade routes and opportunities.
* Exploration of the Americas: While not directly led by Elizabeth, English explorers like Sir Walter Raleigh and Humphrey Gilbert began establishing settlements and exploring the coasts of North America during this time. These efforts eventually led to the founding of Jamestown, the first permanent English settlement in North America, in 1607.
* Mapping: The exploration efforts led to the creation of more detailed maps of the world, including the first map of the entire globe, which was published in 1594.
* Scientific Discoveries: While not directly related to exploration, the era saw the development of new scientific instruments and theories. William Gilbert, for example, published his groundbreaking work "De Magnete" (1600), which laid the foundation for our understanding of magnetism.
Other notable events:
* The defeat of the Spanish Armada (1588): While not a discovery, this naval victory was a defining moment of Elizabeth's reign, securing England's naval dominance and its place as a major player in European politics.
Important to Note: While Elizabeth's reign was a period of significant exploration and discovery, it was also a time of great political and social upheaval. The religious Reformation, the wars with Spain, and the rise of English nationalism were all major factors that shaped the era.
Overall, Elizabeth's reign was a time of great change and progress, with the exploration and discovery of new lands and knowledge playing a significant role in shaping England's future as a global power.