During the Age of Exploration, England played a significant role in shaping world we live in today. England's exploration was primarily driven by economic motives, specifically the desire to find new trading opportunities and establish colonies that could provide raw materials and new markets for English goods. England was at the forefront of maritime technology during the Age of Exploration. They developed the galleon, a type of ship that was faster and more maneuverable than previous designs. They also developed the sextant, a navigational instrument that allowed sailors to determine their location using the stars. One of the most famous English explorers was Sir Francis Drake, who was the first Englishman to circumnavigate the globe. Other notable English explorers include John Cabot, who claimed Newfoundland for England, and James Cook, who explored the Pacific and helped to establish British control over Australia and New Zealand. England established colonies around the world, including in North America, the Caribbean, and India. Some of the most famous English colonies include Jamestown, Virginia, which was the first permanent English settlement in North America. England's explorations helped to establish them as a major world power, both politically and economically.