What were the consequences of the defeat of the Spanish Armada?

The defeat of the Spanish Armada in 1588 marked a significant turning point in European power dynamics. One of the major consequences was the emergence of England as a formidable world power. This victory not only bolstered national pride but also established England's naval superiority, allowing it to project military power globally. Following the defeat of the Armada, England's influence grew, particularly in North America and the Caribbean, as it began to establish colonies and expand its trade networks.

The defeat also had ramifications for Spain, contributing to its decline as a dominant world power, which is captured in another choice. However, the primary immediate consequence of England's victory was its elevation in status and influence on the world stage, fundamentally altering the course of imperial competition among European nations in the following centuries. This context of shift in power dynamics underscores why England's rise as a world power is identified as the correct answer.