The Spanish Armada: A History of the 1588 Invasion
Background
The Spanish Armada was a massive fleet of 130 ships that set sail from Spain in 1588.
Its mission was to overthrow the Protestant Queen Elizabeth I of England and restore Catholic rule.
Command and Mission
The Armada was commanded by Alonso de Guzman, Duke of Medina Sidonia.
Its mission was to sail up the English Channel, meet up with a Spanish army from Flanders, and invade England.
The Armada was the largest and most powerful fleet ever assembled up to that time.
The Battle
The Armada entered the English Channel in July 1588.
It was met by a smaller but more maneuverable English fleet under the command of Lord Howard of Effingham.
The two fleets engaged in a series of battles off the coast of Gravelines, France.
Defeat of the Armada
The English were able to defeat the Armada using a combination of superior tactics and firepower.
The Armada was forced to retreat back to Spain, and the invasion of England was averted.
The defeat of the Armada was a major turning point in English history.
Legacy
The Spanish Armada is remembered as one of the most important naval battles in history.
It marked the end of Spanish dominance of the seas and the beginning of English naval supremacy.
The Armada also played a significant role in the development of English national identity.
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