Who established the Royal Marines?

The Royal Marines were established by King Charles II in 1664. After the restoration of the monarchy in 1660, Charles II recognized the need for a dedicated naval infantry force to support maritime operations. This need stemmed from the lessons learned during earlier conflicts, which highlighted the importance of having well-trained soldiers capable of executing amphibious assaults and providing support to naval forces.

King Charles II's actions resulted in the creation of the 'Ducal Marines' or 'Royal Marines,' which were tasked with protecting royal interests at sea and supporting the Navy during military operations. Over time, the Royal Marines evolved into a highly respected and specialized branch of the British Armed Forces, known for their versatility and capability in various combat situations.

The other options do not align with the historical timeline regarding the establishment of the Royal Marines. King Henry VIII is known for creating the first permanent standing army in England, while Queen Elizabeth I was instrumental in developing the English Navy. King George III reigned much later, during a time when the Royal Marines had already been well established and were active in various campaigns.