Who or what English pirates and privateers who attacked Spanish shipping under Elizabeth I of England?

During the reign of Elizabeth I, notable English pirates and privateers like Sir Francis Drake, Sir Walter Raleigh, and Sir John Hawkins attacked Spanish shipping. They were motivated by a combination of national rivalry, the quest for wealth, and the desire to weaken Spain's dominance. These actions were often sanctioned by the crown, as privateering was seen as a legitimate way to disrupt Spanish trade and bolster England's economy. Their exploits contributed significantly to the rise of English naval power and the eventual establishment of a colonial empire.