A Free Reading Passage on Richard Hakluyt for AP U.S. History

Jun 6

2 min read

Richard Hakluyt is an illustrative example of the Native American Societies before European Contact topic in Period 1 of AP U.S. History. You could reference this example on your AP U.S. History test.

The Principall Nauigations, Voyages, Traffiques, and Discoueries of the English Nation (1598)/public domain

Richard Hakluyt was born around 1552 in London, England. Coming from a well-to-do family, he received an excellent education. He attended Westminster School and later Christ Church, Oxford, where his interest in geography and exploration was sparked. Hakluyt was fascinated by the stories of explorers and the potential for expanding England’s influence overseas.

Hakluyt never set sail on great voyages himself, but he played a crucial role in promoting exploration. He believed that England needed to establish colonies and expand its trade to become a powerful nation. His work was motivated by a combination of national pride, economic ambition, and a desire to spread Christianity.

Hakluyt’s most significant contribution was his collection and publication of accounts of voyages and discoveries. He tirelessly gathered information from sailors, explorers, and traders, compiling these accounts into books that would inspire and inform others. His most famous work, "The Principal Navigations, Voyages, Traffiques and Discoveries of the English Nation," published in 1589, is a compilation of English explorations.

This monumental work provided detailed descriptions of voyages to the New World, Africa, and Asia. It not only chronicled the adventures and challenges faced by explorers but also included practical advice for navigation and colonization. Hakluyt’s writings served as a valuable resource for future explorers and were instrumental in promoting the idea of English colonization.

Hakluyt was a strong advocate for the establishment of English colonies in North America. He argued that colonies would provide economic benefits through access to new markets and resources, create opportunities for trade, and serve as bases for spreading Christianity. He presented these ideas to influential figures, such as Queen Elizabeth I and other key policymakers.

His advocacy played a significant role in the eventual establishment of English colonies in North America, such as the Virginia Colony. Hakluyt’s vision and persistence helped lay the groundwork for England’s colonial empire, which would grow significantly in the following centuries.

Richard Hakluyt’s legacy lies in his unwavering commitment to promoting exploration and colonization. Although he never embarked on voyages himself, his extensive documentation and passionate advocacy provided the knowledge and inspiration needed for others to explore and settle the New World. His works remain valuable historical documents, offering insights into the early days of English exploration and the motivations behind England’s expansion.