Sir Ferdinando Gorges was an English soldier and explorer born around 1566. He is best known for his role in the early colonization of North America, particularly in the region that is now Maine. Gorges was a key figure in promoting the settlement of New England and was granted a charter to establish the province of Maine in 1639. Gorges envisioned a prosperous colony and sought to attract settlers to the area. He founded the Plymouth Company and was involved in various ventures to promote trade and settlement. Despite his efforts, Gorges faced challenges, and his plans for colonization were not fully realized during his lifetime.