In 1588 , Philip II of Spain sent the Spanish Armada against England to end English support for Dutch rebels , to stop English corsair activity and to depose the Protestant Elizabeth I and restore Catholicism to England .
Privately-owned ships combined with the Royal Navy raided Spanish commerce and colonies.238-53 , 281-6 , 292-6 In 1588 , Philip II of Spain sent the Spanish Armada against England to stop English support for the Dutch rebels , to stop English pirate activity , and to depose Elizabeth .