The Armada Campaign 1588

In the latter part of the 16th century, Spain was the major international power and her leader, King Phillip II, pledged to conquer the Protestant heretics in England. He envisioned a two pronged attack. He would send his ‘Invincible Armada’ of 125 ships into the English Channel where it would link up with the Duke of Parma. The Armada would ferry the Duke's soldiers across the straight of Dover and these troops would march on London, seize the Queen, and proceed to conquer the entire country. Over 400 years have passed since this momentous expedition 'sailed and failed', but its fascination and significance remain undiminished.

John Tincey was born in 1955 and educated in London. He graduated from Leicester University in 1977 with a degree in history and is currently employed by one of the major clearing banks. He specialises in all aspects of military history of the late 16th and 17th centuries and frequently contributes to historical and military magazines, as well as lecturing on the development of the art of war. His published works include a story of the London Militia during the English Civil War and a facsimile reprint of one of the original drill books in his collection.