What Did the Treaty of Paris of 1783 Do?

By Robert Palmer

The Treaty of Paris of 1783 marked the end of the American Revolutionary War and established the United States as a new nation. This treaty was signed on September 3, 1783, by representatives from Great Britain and the United States, including Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, and John Jay.

What Did the Treaty of Paris Do?

The Treaty of Paris recognized the independence of the United States from Great Britain and established the boundaries between the two nations. The treaty also granted fishing rights to American fishermen in Newfoundland and other parts of British North America.

Boundary Lines Established

The boundary lines established in the treaty included:

  • The Great Lakes to be the northern border between British Canada and the United States.
  • The Mississippi River to be recognized as the western boundary for America.
  • The southern boundary line was drawn along Florida’s northern edge.

This agreement ensured that present-day states such as Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Minnesota, and part of North Dakota would become part of America.

Fishing Rights

Another significant aspect of the Treaty was fishing rights. The treaty allowed Americans to fish in Canadian waters without any restrictions while also recognizing their right to dry their catch on land within three miles from Canada’s shoreline.

Conclusion

The signing of this treaty marked a significant turning point in American history. It secured our independence from British rule and set boundaries that would guide our nation’s growth for years to come.

It also set an example for other countries that were fighting for their freedom against colonial powers. The Treaty remains an essential document in American history, showcasing our strength as a nation and our resilience in times of adversity.