The DNA profile of Sir Francis Drake
Are you related to the famous English privateer?
Discover a possible family connection with the famous English privateer and compare yourself to many other famous people as well!
The DNA of a famous English privateer
Sir Francis Drake is a key figure in English history, known for his voyages, discoveries, and military exploits. Scholars have sought to trace his family tree to understand his family connections and gain insight into his haplogroup.
Francis Drake was born around 1540 in Tavistock, Devon, England. The Drake family was not noble at the time; his father was a simple farmer and Protestant preacher. Nevertheless, Francis Drake was one of the most important seafarers of the Elizabethan age and was raised to the peerage by Queen Elizabeth I in 1581 for his remarkable achievements. His noble title was not inherited and so he remained childless.
Despite all efforts to trace the line of Drake's ancestors, much still remains obscure. It is believed that Drake is paternally descended from the elder Sir Bernard Drake, but this remains unclear and is actively debated in the historical community.
The life and accomplishments of Sir Francis Drake are often viewed through the filter of legend, but historical and genealogical insights can help uncover the man behind the mythology. His career began with minor ship voyages, often involving trade and piracy, but he later fought in significant conflicts as well.
Drake's most famous contribution to English history, however, is probably his voyage around the world, which took place between 1577 and 1580. During this journey, he encountered diverse cultures, discovered new goods, and established trade routes that helped England become a world power.
Drake died in 1596, but his legacy lives on. His success at sea, particularly his role in repelling the Spanish Armada in 1588, was instrumental in raising England's profile as a maritime power. Moreover, his circumnavigation marked the beginning of a new age of discovery, exploration, and expansion for England and the world.
The genetics and genealogy of Sir Francis Drake provide a fascinating window into the past. They show how a man from humble beginnings became a legend and the role his genes played. While a person's haplogroup is only one aspect of his identity, it can still reveal much about his origins and connections to other people and places. In Drake's case, it provides information about his long-ago English roots that go far beyond his own life experiences.
Overall, the genealogical studies of Sir Francis Drake confirm his prominent position in English history and provide insight into his genetic and family roots.
Sir Francis Drake belonged to haplogroup R-M417 (subgroup R-L664) in the paternal line.
My Intriguing DNA Journey with iGENEA: Unearthing my Connection to Sir Francis Drake
Embarking on a journey of self-discovery with iGENEA's DNA testing and heritage tracing service, a common descendant of the famed Sir Francis Drake, reflects on the insightful fabric of heredity that has been unraveled. The ease of the procedure, astute customer service, and humbling historical revelations are underscored. (Z. Gardin)
Having an interest in genealogy, I decided to dive into my family roots and uncover more about my heritage using iGENEA's DNA testing and heritage tracing services. Throughout this enlightening journey, my overall experience was nothing short of remarkable and the process was much easier than anticipated.
Once I ordered the DNA test kit from iGENEA, it got delivered pretty swiftly. I could tell from the onset that the company had put a lot of thought into the packaging. Clear instructions were provided which made the collection of the DNA sample a breeze – all I had to do was a simple cheek swab.
Upon returning the sample to the lab, the amount of information provided on the very interactive website was clear and comprehensive. The site is well-organized and user-friendly so that individuals can monitor the status of their DNA tests and later view results.
The wait was filled with anticipation and when the big reveal arrived, I was at a loss for words. It turned out that I descend from a line of English nobility, particularly linked to the historical figure, Sir Francis Drake. While it’s hard to comprehend that I share common ancestry with this important figure, it provided a sense of belonging and urged a sudden desire to delve deeper into my newfound historical narrative.
iGENEA's customer service department was also instrumental throughout my journey, responding promptly and kindly to every inquiry—whether it was about the testing process or understanding my results. The detailed report helped me a great deal to understand the connection to Sir Francis Drake and provided rich information about my hitherto unknown lineage.
Subsequently learning about my storied ancestry has been a stirringly personal experience, filled with anticipation and a newfound respect for my ancestors. iGENEA has provided much more than a simple DNA test. They've presented me with a comprehensive view of my heritage, brought history alive, and helped me find a part of myself that I never knew existed. It has truly been a worthwhile journey.
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Questions and answers about the DNA test
How long does a DNA origin analysis take?
After we have received the samples it normally takes 6 weeks for the fist results. Depending on the chosen test the result is thus already fully ready or further analysis are done.
How can I order a DNA origin analysis for someone else?
If you order and pay for a test set for somebody else online, the address of the other person under “Comments”. We will then send the collection kit to the address of this person. You can also place your order by phone or e-mail.
This is how the DNA origin analysis works
A Mucus Sample suffices to get a sample of your DNA. Taking the sample is simple and painless and can be done at home. Send the samples with the envelop included in the sampling kit.
at home, simple and painless
with the enclosed envelope
online after approx. 6-8 weeks