Explanation:
The defeat of the Spanish Armada was indeed a pivotal event during the English Renaissance. Spain's King Philip II sought to invade England primarily due to religious and political motivations. He aimed to restore Catholicism in England and overthrow Queen Elizabeth I, who was Protestant, while also asserting Spanish dominance in Europe.
The plan for the invasion involved a large fleet, known as the Spanish Armada, consisting of over 130 ships. The Armada was to sail to the English Channel, where it would rendezvous with a Spanish army waiting in the Netherlands. Together, they would invade England, supported by Catholic uprisings in the country.
However, the Armada faced several challenges, including unfavorable weather conditions and the English navy's tactics. The English deployed smaller, more maneuverable ships, which allowed them to outmaneuver the larger Spanish vessels. Additionally, the English employed a strategy of harassment and hit-and-run attacks, causing significant damage to the Armada.
Ultimately, the Armada's defeat was a combination of factors, including strategic errors, adverse weather, and the skillful tactics of the English navy, led by figures such as Sir Francis Drake. The failure of the Spanish Armada marked a turning point in European history, cementing England's naval dominance and weakening Spain's power in the region.