In this examination of the experience of the Armada and the common heritage of two maritime, imperial powers, the author draws on personal accounts of the war and describes the sufferings of those who took part on both sides. He argues that the outcome can scarcely be called a victory, given the chaotic strategic preparations and ineffective tactics employed by both sides. The book also studies the broader issues of the conflict: what was the aim of the Armada and how did the Spanish hope to achieve it? What were the military differences between the two sides? Why did the Armada fail?