Who controlled seas in 16th century?

In the 16th century, several European powers vied for control of the seas, with Spain and Portugal being the dominant maritime empires. Spain, through its conquests and explorations, established a vast colonial empire in the Americas, while Portugal controlled key trade routes to India and Africa. The rise of England and the Netherlands toward the end of the century marked the beginning of their challenge to Iberian dominance, leading to increased competition for maritime supremacy. Overall, the period was characterized by exploration, conflict, and the establishment of global trade networks.