The Principal Navigations, Voyages, Traffiques and Discoveries of the English Nation — Volume 04

by Richard Hakluyt

"The Principal Navigations, Voyages, Traffiques and Discoveries of the English Nation" by Richard Hakluyt is a historical account written in the late 16th century. This extensive work catalogues the explorations, trade routes, and diplomatic ventures embarked upon by English merchants and adventurers. The text focuses on documenting various voyages, including trade expeditions to Muscovy and the North-Eastern passage, highlighting the engagement between England and Russia during this period. At the start of the work, the reader is introduced to the privileges granted to English merchants by the Emperor of Russia for trade access to his territories. It highlights key figures such as Sir William Garrard and Anthony Jenkinson, detailing their requests for permission to trade freely in various Russian cities and regions, such as Colmogro and the city of Moscow. The opening also touches upon significant correspondences between Queen Elizabeth I and the Russian Emperor, illustrating the political and economic motivations that underpinned these explorations and trade endeavors. The text commits to chronicling the early interactions between these nations, setting the tone for a detailed account of maritime adventures and commercial expansion.