A close textured portrayal of the man, his achievements, his achievements, his greatness, against the panorama of his time. The early forming of his abilities, which led to his two master works, -- the circumnavigation of the globe and the beginning of English naval strategy with the attack on Cadiz. He traces the growth of his fame, the fight against the Spanish Armada, the failure of the subsequent action against Spain and his declining importance. Even in his own day he was a controversial figures, and Mason puts emphasis on his as a racial prototype of British season, his genius as navigator, his audacity as combatant, his contributions towards England's sea power, and his individual, unique ability. A solid, painstaking piece of work, that yet preserves the fire and spirit of the man.