Spanish Armada

Definition

The Spanish Armada was a large fleet of ships sent by King Philip II of Spain in 1588 with the intent to invade England and overthrow Queen Elizabeth I. This naval expedition marked a significant moment in European history, representing the culmination of tensions between Catholic Spain and Protestant England, which had implications for trade, politics, and the rise of national identities.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Spanish Armada consisted of about 130 ships, including warships and supply vessels, and aimed to transport an army to England for invasion.
2. The defeat of the Spanish Armada is often viewed as a turning point that established England as a major naval power and marked the decline of Spain's dominance in Europe.
3. Adverse weather conditions and strategic tactics employed by the English navy played a crucial role in the destruction of the Armada during its return journey.
4. The failure of the Spanish Armada had significant economic repercussions for Spain, leading to a shift in trade routes and contributing to financial difficulties in the years following.
5. The conflict surrounding the Armada also intensified cultural expressions in England, with playwrights like Shakespeare responding to national pride and fear through their works.

Review Questions

• How did the tensions between Catholic Spain and Protestant England contribute to the launch of the Spanish Armada?
  • The tensions between Catholic Spain and Protestant England were rooted in religious conflicts and political rivalries. King Philip II sought to restore Catholicism in England after the reign of Mary I but faced resistance under Elizabeth I, who not only reinforced Protestantism but also supported Protestant uprisings in Spain's territories. The desire to eliminate this threat led Philip to send the Armada in an attempt to conquer England and establish a Catholic monarchy.
• Evaluate the impact of the defeat of the Spanish Armada on both Spain and England's global status in the late 16th century.
  • The defeat of the Spanish Armada marked a major turning point for both nations. For England, it signified the emergence as a powerful naval force and bolstered national pride, leading to increased exploration and colonization efforts. Conversely, Spain's failure diminished its reputation as an invincible empire, leading to military overreach and economic decline. This shift changed the balance of power in Europe, enabling England to rise as a global maritime leader.
• Assess how literary and cultural responses in England reflected national sentiment during and after the conflict with the Spanish Armada.
  • In the aftermath of the Spanish Armada's defeat, English playwrights like Shakespeare began incorporating themes of national pride, heroism, and defiance against foreign threats into their works. This reflected a newfound sense of identity and unity among English citizens who celebrated their survival against a formidable enemy. The cultural expressions from this period not only served as entertainment but also reinforced political narratives that shaped public perception of England's place in the world.

Related terms

Philip II: King of Spain from 1556 to 1598, known for his strong Catholic beliefs and efforts to expand Spanish influence in Europe.

Elizabeth I: Queen of England from 1558 to 1603, remembered for her support of Protestantism and opposition to Spanish power, which contributed to the conflict leading to the Armada.

Battle of Gravelines: The final battle between the English fleet and the Spanish Armada in August 1588, resulting in a decisive victory for England.