The Explorers Podcast · Monday, August 31, 2026
While Raleigh was not directly involved in the naval combat against the Spanish Armada, he patrolled the Irish Sea and maintained a high profile. In December 1588, the feud between Raleigh and Essex escalated when Essex slapped Raleigh and challenged him to a duel, possibly due to Raleigh's continued favor with the Queen.
“Now, I do want to say that there are some reports that Raleigh was involved in the naval combat, but that's unlikely. He did take part in the aftermath of the armada.”
“Ultimately, he and his kinsman, Richard Grenville, would take to ship and patrol the Irish Sea, which is the body of water that separates Ireland and England.”
“In December of 1588, the feud between Raleigh and Essex reached a critical stage. Essex would slap Raleigh and challenge him to a duel.”