What Did the Treaty of Paris 1784 Do?

By Michael Ferguson

The Treaty of Paris of 1784, also known as the Peace of Paris, was a treaty signed on September 3, 1783, between Great Britain and the United States. This treaty officially ended the American Revolutionary War and recognized the independence of the thirteen former British colonies that now formed the United States of America.

Background

Before the Treaty of Paris, there were several attempts to end the Revolutionary War. However, none of these attempts were successful until 1783 when both sides agreed to negotiate a peace settlement.

The British government had already accepted defeat after their loss at Yorktown in 1781. Thus, they were willing to end the war and acknowledge American independence.

Terms of the Treaty

The Treaty of Paris had several significant terms that impacted both Great Britain and the United States. Some of these terms include:

  • Recognition of American Independence: The most crucial term was that Great Britain recognized American independence. This meant that they acknowledged the thirteen colonies as free and independent states.
  • Borders: The treaty established clear borders between Great Britain and the United States. These borders extended from Maine to Georgia in the east and from Canada to Florida in the west.
  • Fishing Rights: The treaty allowed American fishermen to fish in Canadian waters without any restrictions and vice versa.
  • Repayment of Debts: Both sides agreed that Americans would repay all debts owed to British creditors before or during the war.

The Impact of The Treaty

The Treaty of Paris had far-reaching implications for both Great Britain and America.

The Impact on America: The treaty marked a significant turning point for America. It gave the country the freedom to govern itself independently and chart its course into the future. The United States became a new nation with its government, laws, and democratic institutions.

The Impact on Great Britain: For Great Britain, the treaty marked the end of an era. It was a significant blow to their pride and power as they were forced to recognize American independence. However, they also understood that it was in their best interest to end the war as it had become too costly and difficult to maintain.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Treaty of Paris 1784 was a crucial event that marked the end of the American Revolutionary War. It established clear borders between Great Britain and America, recognized American independence, and paved the way for America’s growth into a new nation. The treaty continues to be an essential symbol of America’s struggle for independence and its journey towards democracy.