Walter Raleigh
Walter Raleigh: A Renaissance Explorer and Statesman
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Full Name and Common Aliases
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Walter Raleigh's full name was Sir Walter Raleigh (c. 1552-1618). He is often referred to as a renowned English explorer, soldier, diplomat, poet, and courtier.
Birth and Death Dates
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Raleigh's birth date is believed to be around 1552, although the exact date remains unknown. His death occurred on October 29, 1618.
Nationality and Profession(s)
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Walter Raleigh was an Englishman by nationality, known for his multifaceted career as a soldier, diplomat, poet, and explorer. He held esteemed positions in the royal court of Queen Elizabeth I and King James I of England.
Early Life and Background
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Born into a minor noble family, Walter Raleigh received a good education at Oxford University. His early life was marked by military service and involvement with the English navy. In his late teens, he joined the army to fight in France and later became involved in various expeditions for Queen Elizabeth I.
Major Accomplishments
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Raleigh's most notable accomplishments include:
Being a key figure in the establishment of the English colonies in North America, particularly Roanoke Island (now part of Dare County, North Carolina), which he attempted to establish multiple times.
Organizing and leading several expeditions for Queen Elizabeth I, one of which resulted in the discovery of the island that now bears his name, Raleigh Island (also known as Rocky Inlet).
Serving as a member of Parliament from 1584 until 1616.Notable Works or Actions
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Some of his notable works and actions include:
Poetry: Raleigh was an accomplished poet who wrote sonnets and other forms of poetry. His poems often dealt with themes related to love, nature, and the human condition.
* Explorations: As mentioned earlier, he led multiple expeditions for Queen Elizabeth I, exploring various parts of North America and helping establish English colonies there.
Impact and Legacy
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Walter Raleigh's impact on history is profound. He played a significant role in shaping the English colonization of North America and contributed to the country's expansionist policies during his time. His legacy as an explorer, soldier, diplomat, poet, and courtier has made him a figure of great interest among historians and scholars.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
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Walter Raleigh is widely quoted and remembered due to his multifaceted career and the significant contributions he made during his lifetime. His involvement in establishing English colonies in North America, as well as his literary works, have left a lasting impact on history. His life serves as an inspiration for those interested in exploring various aspects of human endeavor.
Raleigh's legacy is a testament to the power of human exploration and discovery, showcasing how one individual can leave behind a lasting mark on the world.
Quotes by Walter Raleigh
Walter Raleigh's insights on:
I shall never be persuaded that God hath shut up all light of learning within the lantern of Aristotle’s brain.
Never spend anything before thou have it; for borrowing is the canker and death of every man’s estate.
Because all men are apt to flatter themselves, to entertain the addition of other men’s praises is most perilous.
It is observed in the course of worldly things, that men’s fortunes are oftener made by their tongues than by their virtues; and more men’s fortunes overthrown thereby than by vices.
What is our life? A play of passion. Our mirth the music of division. Our mother’s wombs the tyring houses be, Where we are drest for this short Comedy.
Silence in love betrays more woe – Than words though ne’er so witty; A beggar that is dumb, you know, may challenge double pity.
Give my scallop-shell of quiet, My staff of faith to walk upon, My scrip of joy, immortal diet, My bottle of salvation, My gown of glory, hope’s true gage; And thus I’ll take my pilgrimage.
I wish I loved the Human Race; I wish I loved its silly face; I wish I liked the way it walks; I wish I liked the way it talks; And when I’m introduced to one I wish I thought What Jolly Fun!
The House of Peers, throughout the war, Did nothing in particular, And did it very well: Yet Britain set the world ablaze In good King George’s glorious days!