Half hours on the quarter-deck: The Spanish Armada to Sir Cloudesley Shovel 1670

"Half Hours on the Quarter-Deck: The Spanish Armada to Sir Cloudesley Shovel" by Anonymous is a late 19th-century historical work which recounts England's rise as a maritime superpower through the daring exploits of naval heroes like Sir Francis Drake and Sir John Hawkins. Aimed at young readers, it highlights the significance of naval strength in establishing England's global influence, beginning with the Hawkins family's early voyages. The story tells of William Hawkins’ lucrative, though morally complicated, trading journeys and John Hawkins’ later achievements as a strong naval leader. The account captures the bold and adventurous spirit of the age, describing the challenges faced by these seafarers, their courageous deeds, and their lasting effects on naval history, without shying away from the ethical questions raised by some of their actions.