VICTORIA & ALBERT (Brit.), George Grantham Bain Collection

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In the 17th and 18th centuries, the Royal Navy engaged in a long struggle with the Spanish, Dutch, and French for maritime supremacy. Starting with Elizabeth I, the British navy became England’s major defense and offense force by which the British Empire was extended around the globe. In the 19th century, the Royal Navy helped enforce what became known as the Pax Britannica. During World War I navy's main mission was the protection of shipping from submarine attacks. During World War II the Royal Navy became second in size to the U.S. Navy