Why Henry VII deserves more credit for English sea power

Who is an underrated maritime-oriented sovereign?

Henry VII, because he did more foundational work on naval infrastructure than the fame of Henry VIII usually suggests.

Henry VII is often eclipsed by the naval fame of the later Tudors. His contribution lay in building infrastructure and capacity rather than merely commissioning memorable ships. That foundation made later expansion more achievable for Henry VIII. The watch point corrects ruler-centered histories that begin the English navy one reign too late.