Armada de Barlovento facts for kids

The Armada de Barlovento (which means Windward Fleet) was a special group of about 50 ships. The Spanish Empire created this fleet to protect its lands and trade routes across the Atlantic Ocean. Their main job was to defend against attacks from other European countries and from pirates and privateers. Pirates were sea robbers, while privateers were like pirates but worked for a government during wartime.

History of the Windward Fleet

In 1635, the Spanish government decided it needed a stronger navy. They wanted to protect their valuable trade ships that sailed between Spain and its territories in America. These ships often carried gold and silver, making them a target for enemies.

Why the Fleet Was Needed

The Spanish needed to stop corsairs from England and France. Corsairs were similar to privateers; they were armed ships that attacked enemy merchant vessels. These corsairs often attacked the Spanish treasure fleet, which carried riches from the Americas back to Spain.

To protect their wealth, Spain planned to build naval bases in places like the Bahamas and the Antilles. They also decided to create a powerful new fleet of warships. By the end of the 1600s, they had built several smaller groups of ships called flotillas.

The Fleet's Importance

Even before piracy became a big problem in the Caribbean, Spain had already started building this large fleet. It cost a lot of money, which was partly paid for by new taxes in the American territories.

The Armada de Barlovento was very important for Spain's power in America. It played a key role in defending the Spanish lands and helping with supplies. Most importantly, it protected the trade routes and coasts of Spanish territories in America. This was crucial because other European powers were starting to want these rich lands for themselves.

The Armada de Barlovento continued its work for many years. However, it was eventually disbanded in 1748.

See also

In Spanish: Armada de Barlovento para niños