# Walter Raleigh

> English statesman, soldier and writer (1552–1618)

**Wikidata**: [Q189144](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q189144)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Walter_Raleigh)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/walter-raleigh

## Summary
Walter Raleigh (1552–1618) was an English statesman, explorer, soldier, writer, and poet who played a pivotal role in the political and military affairs of the Kingdom of England. He is best known for his efforts in establishing the ill-fated Roanoke Colony and his influential writings on exploration, politics, and literature.

## Biography
- Born: January 22, 1552 or 1554
- Nationality: Kingdom of England
- Education: Oriel College, University of Oxford
- Known for: Exploration of the Americas, founding the Roanoke Colony, literary works, and service under Queen Elizabeth I
- Employer(s): Kingdom of England (court of Queen Elizabeth I)
- Field(s): Exploration, politics, military, literature, poetry

## Contributions
Walter Raleigh made significant contributions across multiple domains including exploration, political influence, and literary output:
- **Exploration and Colonization**: Initiated the first English attempt at colonizing the Americas with the Roanoke Colony (1585–1590), which later became known as the "Lost Colony."
- **Literary Works**: Authored *The History of the World* (1614), a comprehensive historical narrative that was highly regarded in its time.
- **Political Influence**: Served as a prominent courtier and advisor to Queen Elizabeth I, playing a key role in Anglo-Spanish relations during the Anglo-Spanish War (1585–1604).
- **Military Leadership**: Led expeditions and naval missions, including involvement with the Sea Dogs, a group of English privateers sanctioned to attack Spanish ships and settlements.
- **Poetry and Prose**: Known for his poetic works and treatises on chivalry, governance, and natural philosophy, contributing to Renaissance literature in England.

## FAQs
**What is Walter Raleigh most famous for?**  
Walter Raleigh is most famous for his attempts to establish English colonies in North America, particularly the Roanoke Colony, and for his influential literary and political contributions during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I.

**Where did Walter Raleigh study?**  
He was educated at Oriel College, University of Oxford, where he studied before entering public service and exploration.

**What did Walter Raleigh write?**  
He authored *The History of the World* (1614), a monumental historical work, and various poems and essays that contributed to English Renaissance literature.

**What role did Walter Raleigh play in the Anglo-Spanish War?**  
Raleigh was instrumental in organizing naval expeditions and privateering missions against Spain, aligning with England's broader strategy to challenge Spanish dominance in the New World.

**Was Walter Raleigh knighted?**  
Yes, he was knighted by Queen Elizabeth I, receiving the title of Knight Bachelor, which elevated his status at court and in public service.

**What happened to Walter Raleigh at the end of his life?**  
He was imprisoned in the Tower of London and later executed in 1618 under King James I, following accusations of treason.

## Why They Matter
Walter Raleigh's legacy is deeply embedded in the early history of English exploration and colonization. His efforts laid the groundwork for future British imperial expansion, particularly in North America. His literary contributions, particularly *The History of the World*, influenced historical writing and political thought in the 17th century. His life and work also reflect the broader Renaissance ideals of inquiry, adventure, and intellectual pursuit, making him a symbol of the Elizabethan Age.

## Notable For
- Founding the first English settlement in North America (Roanoke Colony)
- Writing *The History of the World*, a landmark historical text
- Serving as a courtier and military leader under Queen Elizabeth I
- Being knighted as a Knight Bachelor
- Leading expeditions as part of the Sea Dogs, a group of English privateers
- Influencing early English colonial policy and exploration
- Being associated with numerous species and places named in his honor, such as Nihoa raleighi, Harriotta raleighana, Raleigh County, Mount Raleigh, and the city of Raleigh, North Carolina

## Body

### Early Life and Education
Walter Raleigh was born in 1552 or 1554 in England. He was educated at Oriel College, University of Oxford, where he developed a foundation in classical studies and literature. His early exposure to political and intellectual circles in England prepared him for a career in public service and exploration.

### Career
Raleigh's career was multifaceted, encompassing roles as a courtier, explorer, writer, and military leader:
- **Courtier to Queen Elizabeth I**: He gained favor at the English court, becoming one of the queen's trusted advisors and receiving knighthood.
- **Exploration and Colonization**: Raleigh organized and funded expeditions to the Americas, most notably the Roanoke Colony, which aimed to establish a permanent English presence in the New World.
- **Military Involvement**: He played a key role in the Anglo-Spanish War (1585–1604), leading naval missions and privateering expeditions.
- **Literary Contributions**: He authored influential works such as *The History of the World* and various poems that contributed to English Renaissance literature.

### Projects and Expeditions
Raleigh's major projects and expeditions include:
- **Roanoke Colony (1585–1590)**: An attempt to establish the first English colony in North America, which ultimately failed and became known as the "Lost Colony."
- *The History of the World* (1614): A comprehensive historical narrative that was widely read and respected in its time.
- **Privateering and Naval Missions**: As part of the Sea Dogs, Raleigh led raids on Spanish ships and settlements, contributing to England's maritime dominance.

### Influence and Legacy
Walter Raleigh's influence extended beyond his lifetime:
- **Colonial Legacy**: His efforts in North America paved the way for future British colonization, including the eventual establishment of Jamestown and other settlements.
- **Literary Legacy**: His writings influenced historical and political thought in the 17th century and beyond.
- **Cultural Impact**: Raleigh became a symbol of the Elizabethan Age, embodying the spirit of exploration, intellectual pursuit, and national pride.

### Recognition and Affiliations
Raleigh received the title of Knight Bachelor, recognizing his service to the crown. He was affiliated with Oriel College and worked closely with figures such as Thomas Harriot, a prominent British scientist and explorer.

### Namesakes and Commemorations
Several places and species have been named in honor of Walter Raleigh:
- **Nihoa raleighi**: A species of arachnid.
- **Harriotta raleighana**: A species of fish.
- **Raleigh County**: Located in West Virginia, United States.
- **Mount Raleigh**: A mountain in British Columbia, Canada.
- **Raleigh, North Carolina**: A city and state capital in the United States.

### Death and Final Years
Walter Raleigh was imprisoned in the Tower of London and later executed in 1618 under the orders of King James I, following accusations of treason. His final years were marked by political intrigue and shifting royal favor, culminating in his tragic end.

### Literary and Historical Works
Raleigh's literary contributions include:
- *The History of the World* (1614): A monumental work that reflected his intellectual breadth and historical insight.
- Poetry and essays: Contributions to English Renaissance literature that explored themes of governance, chivalry, and natural philosophy.

### Political and Military Roles
Raleigh's political and military roles were central to his legacy:
- **Advisor to Queen Elizabeth I**: He played a key role in shaping English colonial and maritime policy.
- **Sea Dogs**: As a leader of privateering missions, he contributed to England's efforts to challenge Spanish dominance.

### Personal Connections
Raleigh was associated with notable figures of his time, including:
- **Thomas Harriot**: A British scientist and explorer who collaborated with Raleigh on various projects.

### Publications and Archives
Raleigh's works and papers are preserved in numerous archives and libraries, including:
- Papers of Correspondence (e.g., NLW MS 6687D)
- Literary manuscripts and historical texts that reflect his intellectual contributions.

### Cultural and Historical Significance
Walter Raleigh remains a significant figure in English history, representing the intersection of exploration, literature, and politics during the Renaissance. His legacy continues to influence historical narratives and cultural memory, particularly in the context of early English colonization and intellectual achievement.

## References

1. [National Heritage List for England](https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1334014)
2. [GENUKI](https://www.genuki.org.uk/big/eng/DEV/EastBudleigh)
3. [Source](https://www.rmg.co.uk/discover/explore/sir-walter-raleigh)
4. [BnF authorities](http://data.bnf.fr/ark:/12148/cb121749920)
5. Integrated Authority File
6. Source
7. The Peerage
8. [LIBRIS. 2012](https://libris.kb.se/katalogisering/zw9cdsrh51p4fs7)
9. The History of Parliament
10. poets.org
11. Library of the World's Best Literature
12. International Standard Name Identifier
13. MusicBrainz
14. Dictionary of National Biography
15. BnF authorities
16. [Geographicus Rare Antique Maps biographical dictionary of cartographers](https://www.geographicus.com/P/RareMaps/raleigh)
17. Encyclopædia Britannica Online
18. SNAC
19. Find a Grave
20. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
21. Virtual International Authority File
22. [Source](https://www.bartleby.com/library/bios/index14.html)
23. Autoritats UB
24. BBC Things
25. CERL Thesaurus
26. Shakeosphere
27. Treccani's Enciclopedia on line
28. Quora
29. Carnegie Hall linked open data
30. Enciclopedia Treccani
31. Dizionario di Storia
32. KBpedia
33. Bibliography of the History of the Czech Lands
34. Digital Scriptorium Catalog
35. Catalogo of the National Library of India