A.D. Innes, T.C. & E.C. Jack,
Edinburgh.

I. CAUSES

1. _Political._--(_a_) Ambition of Philip to rule Europe; chief
obstacles were England, France, The Netherlands.

(The opposition of France was overcome by a treaty and by the
marriage of Philip and Isabella of France after Elizabeth had
refused Philip's offer of marriage. The Netherlands were in full
revolt and could not be conquered even by the cruelties of Alva and
the destruction of their commerce. England was the chief Protestant
power in Europe and, as such, was the chief opponent of Spain.)

(_b_) The marriage trouble; Elizabeth's religious policy broke off
negotiations of marriage with Philip.

(_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.)

3. The affair at Cadiz.

(Retarded the invasion for a year, gave England more time for
preparation, and encouraged hopes of success.)

4. The battle in the Channel.