John Hawkins was an English naval commander and explorer in the 16th century, known for his role in the early transatlantic slave trade. He was born around 1532 and became one of the first Englishmen to engage in this trade, capturing Africans and transporting them to the Americas. His voyages contributed to the expansion of England's maritime power. In addition to his involvement in the slave trade, Hawkins served as a vice-admiral in the English navy. He played a significant role in the defeat of the Spanish Armada in 1588, which was a pivotal moment in English history. Hawkins' legacy is complex, reflecting both his contributions to naval warfare and the darker aspects of his trade activities.