Sailing the high seas offered excitement, danger, and sometimes, the chance to become very rich.
These men and women are famous for their ocean adventures.
1. Ferdinand Magellan
Magellan is sometimes thought of being the first person to sail around the world. However, he died during the voyage, and 18 surviving sailors completed the trip. It took 3 years.
2. Captain John Smith
Smith was a soldier and explorer and came to America in 1607. He became friends with the native princess Matoaka, better known as Pocahontas. John Smith held the rank of captain because of his army service, not because he was the captain of a ship.
3. Alexander Selkirk
Selkirk, a Scottish sailor, was marooned on an island off the coast of Chile in South America. He was rescued four years later and his story became the inspiration for the book Robinson Crusoe.
4. Grace O'Malley
(Gráinne Ní Mháille)
O'Malley was an Irish pirate. She attacked ships and castles along the coast, and fought against the English, who wanted to rule Ireland.
