England rulers wanted to colonize North America

English motivations were entirely different from those of Spain, which hoped to enrich itself, and France, which hoped to profit from the fur trade. Although the various groups who traveled to the Americas had separate motives, the basic reason for colonization was stated by Richard Hakluyt in his 1584 Discourse on Western Planting:

Extend the new Protestant Christianity to the New World.

Create a basis for expansion of trade. Provide a source of raw Materials Provide military bases to assist in the war with Spain which was ongoing.

Increase revenue for the royal treasury

Find the elusive Northwest Passage to the East.

Provide employment for the large number of Englishmen who were idled.