The Epic Expedition of Sir John Norris and Sir Francis Drake to Spain and Portugal in 1589

The Bold Adventure That Changed the Course of History

In the year 1589, two legendary British commanders, Sir John Norris and Sir Francis Drake, embarked on an audacious expedition to Spain and Portugal. This daring endeavor not only showcased the prowess and strategic brilliance of these renowned explorers but also had a significant impact on the historical events that followed. Join us on a thrilling journey back in time as we explore the details of this extraordinary expedition.

The Players

Sir John Norris, a distinguished English soldier, and parliamentarian, was known for his military expertise and valiance in the face of adversity. Sir Francis Drake, an exceptional English sea captain and privateer, was celebrated for his cunning tactics and naval successes against the Spanish Armada. Together, they formed a fearsome alliance that would leave an indelible mark on history.

Expedition of Sir John Norris and Sir Francis Drake to Spain and Portugal, 1589 (Navy Records Society Publications)

by R.B. Wernham (1st Edition, Kindle Edition)

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The Objectives

The primary goal of the expedition was to disrupt Spanish and Portuguese naval forces, weaken the power of their fleets, and create an opening for a potential invasion of the Iberian Peninsula. The commanders also aimed to capture valuable prizes, gather intelligence on Spanish defenses, and establish English dominance in the Atlantic Ocean.

The Journey Begins

The fleet, comprised of 150 ships and over 30,000 men, set sail from Plymouth in April 1589. The English commanders' audacious strategy involved launching simultaneous land and sea attacks on Spain's northwestern coast and Portugal. This unexpected offensive would keep their enemies guessing and split their forces, giving the English a strategic advantage.

The Siege of Corunna

The expedition's first major engagement occurred at the strategic city of Corunna in northwestern Spain. The English forces, led by Sir John Norris, laid a siege on the city, battling against well-fortified Spanish defenses. Despite being heavily outnumbered, the English displayed remarkable resilience and tactical brilliance, eventually forcing the Spanish garrison to surrender after a grueling two-week siege.

Naval Victories

While Sir John Norris was occupied with the siege, Sir Francis Drake, commanding the English fleet, achieved remarkable naval victories along the Portuguese coast. He ambushed and captured numerous Spanish and Portuguese ships, damaging their naval power and securing important intelligence about Spain's defenses.

The Battle of Lisbon

With Corunna secured, the expedition moved southward to Lisbon, the capital of Portugal. The English launched an audacious attack on the heavily fortified city, resulting in intense fighting both on land and at sea. Although they ultimately failed to conquer the city, the English forces caused significant damage to the Spanish fleet and demonstrated their capacity to challenge Spanish dominance in the region.

Legacy and Significance

The expedition of Sir John Norris and Sir Francis Drake to Spain and Portugal in 1589 left a lasting impact on European history. While the English did not achieve their ultimate objective of establishing a permanent foothold in Iberia, the campaign severely weakened Spain's naval power and bolstered English confidence. The expedition also showcased the capabilities of the English navy and laid the groundwork for future naval dominance in the region.

The epic expedition of Sir John Norris and Sir Francis Drake to Spain and Portugal in 1589 is a testament to human ambition, strategic brilliance, and unwavering determination. Their audacious actions challenged the status quo and forever changed the balance of power in Europe. The legacy of this remarkable adventure continues to captivate the imagination and inspire awe in those who delve into its rich history.

Join us on this fascinating journey, and explore the untold stories of courage, valor, and triumph!

Expedition of Sir John Norris and Sir Francis Drake to Spain and Portugal, 1589 (Navy Records Society Publications)

by R.B. Wernham (1st Edition, Kindle Edition)

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	97040 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	456 pages

FREE

Actions against the Spanish Armada and campaigns in the Netherlands left the Queen’s coffers empty. For this reason proposals to capture the Spanish treasure fleet were given royal support. The treasure fleet homeward bound from the Americas would be intercepted in the Azores. A diversion at Santander to damage the Spanish fleet would prevent protection of the treasure fleet and, more importantly, prevent further actions against England or Ireland. However, the project was diverted further with backers wanting to re-instate Don Antonio as King of Portugal, with ideas of gaining lucrative Portuguese trade rights.

At sea a further diversion was taken, with news of shipping at Corunna and the prospect of capturing merchantmen. ‘Profit was already challenging strategy’. This diversion gave their enemies more time to prepare. The failure at Lisbon was partly from a lack of co-ordination between the navy and army but also from the lack of promised support from Don Antonio’s supporters.

The decision to sail for the Azores to intercept the Spanish treasure fleet was at last made only for Drake to be driven back to England by a storm. Short of supplies and with sick crews the ships were in no condition to continue with the Queen’s demands so there was no great treasure and the Spanish fleet was still in being. The sale of prizes and their contents failed to cover the cost of the expedition, and so the expedition was considered a financial and strategic failure.