English ship Rainbow (1586) facts for kids
The San Martin, flagship of the Spanish fleet, is attacked by the English Rainbow and the Dutch Gouden Leeuw near Dover in 1588.
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Quick facts for kids History |
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 England |
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| Name | Rainbow |
| Launched | 1586 |
| Fate | Sunk as a breakwater, 1680 |
| Notes |
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| General characteristics as built | |
| Class and type | Galleon |
| Tons burthen | 480 |
| Length | 100 ft (30 m) (keel) |
| Beam | 32 ft (9.8 m) |
| Depth of hold | 12 ft (3.7 m) |
| Complement | 250 |
| Armament |
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| General characteristics after 1617 rebuild | |
| Class and type | 40-gun great ship |
| Tons burthen | 731 |
| Length | 112 ft (34 m) (keel) |
| Beam | 36 ft 3 in (11.05 m) |
| Depth of hold | 13 ft 6 in (4.11 m) |
| Sail plan | Full-rigged ship |
| Armament | 40 guns of various weights of shot |
Rainbow was a famous warship, a type called a galleon, built for the English navy. She was launched in 1586 from Deptford Dockyard. This powerful ship played a big part in England's history, especially during the battles against Spain.
Contents
A Mighty English Galleon
The Rainbow was a large sailing ship known as a galleon. These ships were important for navies in the 16th and 17th centuries. When first built, the Rainbow weighed about 480 tons. She was around 100 feet long (about 30 meters) at her keel, which is the main bottom beam of the ship. She had a crew of 250 sailors and soldiers. The ship was armed with 26 guns, including large cannons called demi-cannons and culverins.
Fighting the Spanish Armada
The Rainbow was commanded by Lord Henry Seymour. He was a skilled naval commander. The ship took part in some very important events against Spain. One was called the Singeing the King of Spain's Beard. This was a daring attack on Spanish ships in their own harbors.
Later, in 1588, the Rainbow played a crucial role in the defeat of the Spanish Armada. This was a huge fleet of Spanish ships sent to invade England. The Rainbow fought bravely in battles like the Battle of Gravelines. Her cannons helped to drive back the Spanish fleet.
Rebuilding and New Battles
Over the years, the Rainbow was updated to keep her strong and modern. In 1617, she was rebuilt at Deptford. After this, she was considered a "great ship" and had 40 guns. This made her even more powerful. She was rebuilt again between 1628 and 1629 at Chatham. By 1660, her firepower had increased to 56 guns.
The Rainbow continued to serve England for many years. She fought in all three Anglo-Dutch Wars during the 17th century. These were a series of naval conflicts between England and the Dutch Republic. The Rainbow took part in most of the major battles during these wars. Her long career showed her strength and importance to the English navy.
The End of Her Journey
After a long and active service, the Rainbow was finally retired. In 1680, she was sunk on purpose at Sheerness. She was used as a "breakwater." This means she was placed to protect a harbor or coastline from strong waves. It was a common way to use old ships after their fighting days were over.
