The Anglo-Spanish War arose from a calculated choice between two Catholic powers rather than a simple religious crusade. Cooperation with Mazarin's France kept potential Stuart sponsors occupied while letting the Protectorate attack Spanish wealth and pursue wider commercial access. France would fight the European war while England pursued advantages in the Atlantic and Caribbean. The strategy also answered domestic demands for economic opportunity after the civil wars.
Chapter · 1:34-7:01
Why Cromwell chose war with Spain
Cromwell's alliance with France turns war against Spain into a program for security, commerce, and political survival.