The Defeat of the Spanish Armada part 4

The Battle

#### Initial Encounters

The Spanish Armada set sail from Lisbon in May 1588, but it was delayed by storms and logistical issues. When it finally reached the English Channel in late July, the English fleet was ready. The first major encounter occurred off Plymouth on July 31, 1588. The English ships, using their superior speed and maneuverability, launched hit-and-run attacks on the Spanish formation, inflicting damage while avoiding close combat.

#### The Battle of Gravelines

The decisive battle took place near Gravelines, off the coast of Flanders, on August 8, 1588. The English fleet, commanded by Howard and Drake, attacked the Spanish Armada in a fierce and sustained assault. The English used fireships—vessels set ablaze and sent into the Spanish formation—to break the tight crescent formation of the Armada. The fireships caused panic and confusion, forcing the Spanish ships to scatter.

Once the Spanish formation was disrupted, the English took advantage of their superior gunnery to inflict significant damage. The English ships, with their longer-range cannons, pounded the Spanish vessels from a distance, avoiding the boarding tactics that the Spanish had relied upon. Several Spanish ships were heavily damaged or sunk in the engagement.

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