Final answer:
Queen Elizabeth I supported the Dutch against Spain mainly to defend Protestantism and to undermine Spain's power. This support was part of a broader strategy that included economic disruption of Spain's wealth through privateering and outcompeting the Dutch in global trade after the Thirty Years' War.
Step-by-step explanation:
Queen Elizabeth I of England supported the Dutch against Spain primarily due to religious and economic reasons. The Dutch rebellion against Spanish rule provided Elizabeth with a strategic opportunity to undermine Spain's power and protect Protestantism. During the late 16th century, Spain, under King Philip II, represented the pinnacle of Catholic hegemony and sought to squash the rising Protestant movements in Europe, including England and the newly independent Dutch Republic. Elizabeth's England was Protestant and stood in direct opposition to Catholic Spain's agenda.
The economic benefits of disrupting Spain were apparent as well. The English crown endorsed privateers to harass Spanish ships, capturing valuable resources and diminishing Spain's wealth. Notable figures like Francis Drake became famous for their lucrative privateering, which strengthened England both financially and naval-wise. Moreover, the strategic alliance with the Dutch during the Thirty Years' War allowed England to curb the flourishing Dutch trade through the Navigation Acts, which eventually led to England surpassing the Dutch commercially.
In sum, support for the Dutch was a means to both protect England's Protestantism and promote its commercial interests in an increasingly competitive Atlantic World. Elizabeth's decision was, therefore, a calculated reaction to a complex web of religious, political, and economic considerations, highlighting the intricate nature of early modern European diplomacy and power struggles.