Map 2: The first engagement, near Plymouth

The Lord High Admiral, Lord Howard of Effingham and Sir Francis Drake managed to set to sea with 54 ships and, by 3pm on 30 July 1588 the fleet had reached the Eddystone rock and were in sight of the Armada. The Armada was then put into battle formation.

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The English fleet can be seen leaving Plymouth; the main body of the fleet heading due south, the track marked by a dotted line, with the 11 ships shown to shore of the Armada with their zigzag track marked. 

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The English pinnace (a small sailing ship) Disdain is shown firing the opening shot of the battle.

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The maps had additional colours added in the 19th century to make them more saleable. Detailed study by The National Archives has revealed fascinating information about the use of reds, blues, pinks, greens and yellows.

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