Final answer:
France was the nation with a fleet of ships in the York River, taking control of the bay after defeating the British fleet.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nation that had their own fleet of ships in the York River was France. Historical records show that the French and British fleets clashed, and after the British defeat, the French took control of the bay, leaving them in a position to blockade the York River. This naval superiority was a critical moment in establishing French dominance in the region.
Historically, the various European powers, including Portugal, Spain, England, and France, were all heavily involved in exploration and expansion. For instance, Portugal initiated the era of Atlantic exploration under the direction of Prince Henry the Navigator and established the first colonies in Africa and India.
Spain, after Columbus's voyage in 1492, laid claim to vast territories in the Americas. Despite their involvement in global maritime activities, it was France that maintained control of the York River fleet during the period in question.