What Was the 1784 Treaty of Paris?

By Anna Duncan

The Treaty of Paris, signed on September 3, 1783, marked the formal end of the American Revolutionary War between Great Britain and the United States. However, it is important to note that there was another Treaty of Paris signed in 1784 which played a significant role in shaping the post-war relationship between these two nations.

The Background

Following the victory of the American colonists in their fight for independence, negotiations began to establish a peace treaty. The first Treaty of Paris, signed in 1783, recognized the United States as an independent nation and outlined its boundaries. However, it left several unresolved issues that needed further discussion.

The Purpose

The 1784 Treaty of Paris aimed to address these unresolved matters and solidify the peace agreement between Great Britain and the United States. Its primary focus was on establishing commerce and navigation rights between the two nations.

Key Provisions

The treaty consisted of several key provisions that shaped diplomatic relations between Great Britain and the United States:

  • Article I: The United States agreed to restore confiscated property belonging to Loyalists (those who remained loyal to Great Britain during the war) and compensate them for any losses.
  • Article II: Both nations agreed to grant each other most-favored-nation status concerning commerce and navigation rights.
  • Article III: The British government agreed to remove all troops from American territory as soon as possible.
  • Article IV: Debts owed by individuals from one nation to another were recognized as valid and collectible.
  • Article V: The treaty established a commission to resolve any remaining boundary disputes between the United States and British North America (Canada).

Implications

The 1784 Treaty of Paris had significant implications for both nations:

  • Improved Relations: By addressing unresolved issues, the treaty helped solidify peace and improve diplomatic relations between Great Britain and the United States.
  • Economic Cooperation: The establishment of commercial and navigation rights laid the foundation for future trade between the two nations, fostering economic cooperation.
  • Loyalist Compensation: The provision for compensating Loyalists aimed to provide some measure of justice and reconciliation after the war.
  • Boundary Resolution: The creation of a commission to resolve boundary disputes set a framework for peaceful negotiations and prevented potential conflicts in the future.

Conclusion

The 1784 Treaty of Paris played a crucial role in shaping post-war relations between Great Britain and the United States. By addressing unresolved matters from the previous treaty, it helped establish commerce, improve diplomatic ties, and pave the way for future cooperation. Understanding this treaty is essential to grasp the complexities of early American diplomacy and its impact on international relations.