Sir Francis Drake, one of the most notable figures of the late 16th century, was engaged in his renowned circumnavigation of the globe, undertaken from 1577 to 1580. While sailing along the western coastline of North America in June 1579, Drake and his crew arrived at a picturesque harbor which he named Nova Albion, now recognized as part of modern California. This moment not only marked a milestone in Drake's expedition but also held considerable significance for England's ambitions in the New World. The crew landed on this land to replenish supplies and make repairs to their ship, the Golden Hind.

During their stay at Nova Albion, Drake claimed the territory for the English crown in a formal ceremony, raising the British flag to signify the claim. This act was partly motivated by England's desire to counterbalance Spanish dominance in the Americas. The significance of this claim extended beyond mere territorial acquisition; it was also intended as a bold declaration of England's expanding influence across the globe. Drake is noted for his interactions with the local Native American tribes, which were part of his navigation and exploration efforts. However, the nature of these encounters varied, reflecting the complexities of colonial interactions.

The documentation of Drake's claim and his broader expedition provided critical intelligence and territorial mapping for England. This paved the way for subsequent English explorations and settlements in North America. Drake returned to England a hero, receiving a knighthood for his achievements, and his journey laid the groundwork for England's later imperial pursuits in the region. The claim of Nova Albion thus played a pivotal role in establishing the groundwork for future British colonization efforts.