History of "Rain rain go away" poem

The origin of the lyrics to "Rain rain go away" is said to date back to the reign of Queen Elizabeth I (1533-1603), one of the English Tudor monarchs.

During this period of English history there was constant rivalry between Spain and England culminating in the launch of the Spanish Armada in 1588.

The Spanish Armada consisted of many Spanish galleons and was sent to invade England.

The Armada was led by Duke of Medina Sedonia and the the fleet numbered over 130 ships.

The English fleet, under Admiral Lord Howard, totalled 34 small Navy vessels and 163 armed merchant ships.

But the great Spanish Armada was defeated. Only 65 Spanish galleons and just 10,000 men returned to Spain. The attempt failed, not only because of the swift nature of the smaller English ships but also by the stormy weather which scattered the Armada fleet. Hence the origin of the "Rain rain go away" Nursery rhyme!