What was the name of Sir Francis Drake's ship?

The famous galleon that carried Sir Francis Drake on his historic circumnavigation of the globe between 1577 and 1580 wasn't always known by its celebrated name. The ship actually began its voyage as the Pelican. Drake chose to rename his flagship mid-journey while passing through the Strait of Magellan, a gesture intended to honor his wealthy patron and sponsor, Sir Christopher Hatton.

The new name was a savvy political move. Sir Christopher Hatton's family crest prominently featured a 'hind,' the term for a female red deer. By christening his ship the Golden Hinde, Drake was paying a very public tribute to one of his most important investors back in Queen Elizabeth I's court. This helped secure his political standing and the favor of the powerful figures who funded his expeditions.

This legendary voyage was about far more than just exploration. Acting as a privateer for the English crown, Drake used the ship to plunder Spanish colonies and treasure ships along the coasts of the Americas. When the Golden Hinde finally returned to England, it was laden with so much treasure that the queen's share alone was enough to pay off the entire national debt.