Nursery Rhymes
Lyrics and Origins

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Rain Rain go Away

Nursery Rhyme & History

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!

Picture of Sir Francis Drake playing bowls
on Plymouth Ho prior to defeating
the Spanish Armada

Rain Rain go Away poem

Rain rain go away,
Come again another day.
Little Johnny wants to play;
Rain, rain, go to Spain,
Never show your face again!



Rain Rain go Away poem

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note: A Rhymes lyrics and the perceived origins of some Nursery Rhymes vary according to location