Why did the Spanish Armada attack England in 1588?
Quick Answer
The Spanish Armada attacked England in 1588 in an attempt to establish Spain's dominance in Europe and prevent Protestantism from overtaking Catholicism on the continent. Other reasons included Span's desire to prevent England establishing a strong navy and Mary Queen of Scots' execution.
Continue ReadingFull Answer
In the years preceding the Spanish Armada's 1588 invasion, Europe was torn between Catholicism and Protestantism. This was due to the Protestant Reformation earlier in the century, which saw several countries split with Rome. As a Catholic leader, Phillip II wished to see England return to Catholicism. In addition, while his country had a stronghold in the Spanish Netherlands, Dutch rebels were helping Protestantism flourish there and Queen Elizabeth I of England was aware that full Spanish control would make her country vulnerable. As such, she intervened there in 1585, providing support to the Dutch rebels.
While the struggle between Protestant and Catholic Europe were key motivators for the invasion, there were other catalysts. Mary Queen of Scots was a threat to Protestant rule in England, and when Queen Elizabeth II executed her in 1587, Catholic Europe was shocked. Phillip II was once married to Elizabeth's sister, Mary. Before dying Mary, stated that Mary Queen of Scots was the next rightful heir, with Phillip following. This led Phillip to believe that he was England's next true king following her execution. Finally, the Spanish were successfully exploring the world, and felt uneasy as England began to establish a navy that could rival theirs.
Learn more about Modern EuropeRelated Questions
-
Q:
What war occurred in Shakespeare's time, and why was it fought?
A: The war that occurred in Shakespeare's time was the Anglo-Spanish War between England and Spain, and it was fought mainly as a religious conflict between P... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
How many King Georges of England were there?
A: As of 2014, there have been six King Georges of England. King George VI reigned from 1936 to 1952, and Queen Elizabeth II, the current British monarch as o... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What was life like in eighteenth century England?
A: During the eighteenth century, as England was rapidly becoming a global power, everyday life was subject to broad and sweeping changes — most notably those... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
Why did the Industrial Revolution begin in England?
A: The Industrial Revolution began in England because by the end of the 19th century, Britain was one of the most powerful countries in the world and had a he... Full Answer >Filed Under:
