Journal of an Armada Leader

Journal Entry
Alonso Pérez de Guzmán
August 1588


We’ve been traversing the English Channel for three days now. Loss of life and ship is great. Many have questioned our reasons for this battle, but all follow my lead and give their best effort. Now I begin to question the true reason behind this fight. Rumors are circulating that Phillip’s true motive is that of revenge for spurned affections. This seems far-fetched to me as marriages in royalty rarely result from love, but rather political alliances.

Whether the rumors are true or not, this does not alter our course. We will continue to battle the English until they bow to our will. The sea is not friendly at this port. The damage to ships is plenty and morale even greater. Sickness has filled our fleet and made the journey even more difficult.

King Phillip assures us that God is behind us in this crusade. I am not so certain. The English have turned their back on the way of the Lord. They worship in churches led by mere men. They have lost their link to God, turning a deaf ear to the Priests and God’s servants. We attempt to right this wrong in His name, yet our numbers dwindle.

God willing, this will be over soon and I can return to my home. The dank weather and dreary skies do nothing for the morale of the crew. We all dream of better days, spent basking in the sunlight of Spain. The thought of returning to our homeland spurs us onward when we feel the crushing weight of disappointment.

I must find a way to encourage the men, they are weary and need rest but we must not falter. To pull out now would be to admit defeat. We will persevere…