When was british merchant navy founded?

The British Merchant Navy, as a recognized entity, evolved over several centuries, but its formal beginnings can be traced back to the 16th century, particularly during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I in the late 1500s. The term "Merchant Navy" itself became more commonly used in the 19th century, especially during the Napoleonic Wars when the need for a strong commercial shipping fleet became evident. The British Merchant Navy played a crucial role in global trade and naval warfare throughout its history.