Under the rule of Queen Elizabeth, England encountered one of its greatest challenges as it faced the mighty Spanish Armada which planned to invade the island nation. Rather than shy away from this threat, Queen Elizabeth rose to the occasion and rallied her troops in her legendary letter to the troops of Tilbury. Though she did not lead them personally, the letter inspired her soldiers to continue fighting, allowing them to eventually overcome the Spanish Armada.
Elizabeth’s Letter to the Troops
In the summer of 1588, England faced an invasion from the mighty Spanish Armada, commanded by the Duke of Medina Sidonia. This fleet, numbering over 130 warships set sail with the purpose of overthrowing Queen Elizabeth and protestant rule in England and putting a Catholic monarch. With such a huge fleet, it seemed like nothing could stop the Spanish and many people began to panic.
One person who kept a cool head was Queen Elizabeth I who was famous for her intelligence, bravery, and spirit. Seeing the fear and uncertainty within her troops, she rode out to the town of Tilbury where her soldiers were waiting to help rally them and raise morale.
Before she departed, the queen prepared a letter for her troops. This wasn’t just some flowery speech praising them for their bravery, but a message straight from the heart, stirring her soldiers’ bravery and reminding them of what was at stake.
This letter helped raise the army’s spirits in the coming battle. Not only did meet the Spanish in battle, they managed to decisively crush the armada and send it retreating to Spain. Although this was thanks in part to the weather, none of that would have been possible without Elizabeth’s inspirational words.
My loving people,
We have been persuaded by some that are careful of our safety, to take heed how we commit ourselves to armed multitudes for fear of treachery; but I assure you I do not desire to live to distrust my faithful and loving people.
Let tyrants fear. I have always so behaved myself that, under God, I have placed my chiefest strength and safeguard in the loyal hearts and goodwill of my subjects. And therefore I am come amongst you, as you see, at this time, not for my recreation and disport, but being resolved, in the midst and heat of the battle, to live or die amongst you all; to lay down for my God, and for my kingdom, and for my people, my honour and my blood, even in the dust.
I know I have the body of a weak and feeble woman; but I have the heart and stomach of a king, and of a king of England too, and think foul scorn that Parma or Spain, or any prince of Europe, should dare to invade the borders of my realm; to which rather than any dishonour shall grow by me, I myself will take up arms, I myself will be your general, judge, and rewarder of every one of your virtues in the field.
Your valour and bravery has shown and will continue to show that we are a match for any invader. We will prevail, and with God’s grace, the glory and honour will be ours.
God bless you all.
-Elizabeth I, Queen of England.
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