How did the Hand Salute originated?

               After the defeat of the Spanish Armada many years ago, a naval tournament was arranged for the victorious British seamen. At the request of a certain Admiral Drake, Queen Elizabeth consented to come from London to award prizes. The officer in charge of arrangements issued orders that "on account of the dazzling loveliness of her Majesty, all men, upon receiving their prizes, should shield their eyes with their fight hand." Thus was born the naval and military salute.