(c) Philip received as a legacy the rights of Mary Queen, of Scots to the English throne.
2. Commercial.—Interference of the English in the New World, to which Spain claimed sole right.
(This includes the English settlements as well as the capture of Spanish treasure ships. Recall stories of Drake, Hawkins, etc.)
3. Religious.—Philip was the chief supporter of Roman Catholicism in Europe, and wished to impose his religion on England.
(This was the period of compulsion in religious matters.)
II. EVENTS
1. Preparations in Spain and England.
(Spain set about preparing a large fleet, to carry soldiers as well as sailors. The best Spanish general was in command at first. His death put an incapable man in command, who was largely responsible for the defeat. The Duke of Parma was to co-operate from the Netherlands with a large army. In England, the small battle fleet was increased by the voluntary contributions of all classes till it actually outnumbered the Spanish fleet, though the vessels were very much smaller. A comparison of the fleets as they were on the eve of battle should be made.)
2. Difference in the national spirit in the two countries.
(The Spanish were on an expedition of conquest; the sailors were ill-trained and many serving against their will. The English were defending their homes; they forgot their religious and political differences in their patriotism; the sailors were hardy, fearless, and most skilful in handling their ships.)