Question

What did England need before challenging rival nations in their quest for foreign territories?

Answer 1

This question could be a bit clearer, specifically regarding the time period, but a safe answer is always a powerful navy

England, being an island nation, needed a dominant naval force in order to project power abroad and conquer new territories. They did so in the first few hundred years of the Modern Era, assembling a navy that was vastly more powerful than any potential rival. This enabled England to establish a presence in places ranging from the Americas to Hong Kong to India. 

Answer 2

England had many rivals such as the French, Dutch, Portuguese, and Spanish. England watched as other countries explored foreign lands and claimed them as their own. Through gaining new lands, these countries built their financial strength and gained political power. Finally, under the rule of Queen Elizabeth l, England stopped watching and decided to change. What England needed before challenging rival nations in their quest for foreign territories is a unified government and strong naval force.

(Took the test and this was correct.)

Hope this helps!