Final answer:
Sir Francis Drake was the famous English sailor and Sea Dog who played a crucial role in defeating the Spanish Armada in 1588 and was knighted by Queen Elizabeth I for his privateering successes. Option C is the correct answer.
Step-by-step explanation:
The historical figure in question, who was a famous English sailor and one of the Sea Dogs enrolled by Elizabeth I to act as privateers against Spanish shipment seizures, and played a significant role in defeating the Spanish Armada in 1588 is Sir Francis Drake. He was a skillful mariner who conducted raids across the Western Hemisphere, plundering Spanish ships and seizing valuable goods such as gold and silver. His successful privateering led to his knighthood by Queen Elizabeth I. Sir Francis Drake's actions were instrumental in undermining Spanish power and contributing to England's naval dominance.