Mon-Almonte Treaty facts for kids
The Mon-Almonte Treaty was an agreement that helped bring Mexico and Spain back together. It was signed on September 26, 1859. The people who signed it were Juan N. Almonte, a Mexican conservative, and Alejandro Mon, who represented Queen Isabella II of Spain. They signed it in Mexico.
This treaty was signed by Mexican conservatives. They were looking for help in their fight against the liberals during a time called the Reform War. One important part of the treaty was a loan given to the conservative group. They were supposed to pay it back if they won the war. However, the liberals won the war. This meant the new liberal government ended up with the debt. This added to Mexico's already large debt to countries in Europe.
Through this treaty, the conservatives hoped to get support from European royal families. But just like the 1859 McLane-Ocampo Treaty between the liberal government of Benito Juárez and the United States, the Mon-Almonte Treaty never actually became official.
Contents
Important People in the Treaty
Juan Nepomuceno Almonte was a Mexican conservative politician and general. He played a big role in Mexican politics during the 19th century. He was a strong supporter of conservative ideas.
Alejandro Mon y Menéndez was a Spanish politician. He served as a representative for Queen Isabella II of Spain. His role was to help restore relations between Spain and Mexico.
Why the Treaty Was Signed
The Mon-Almonte Treaty was signed during a difficult time in Mexico. This period was known as the Reform War. It was a civil war between two main groups:
- Conservatives: This group wanted to keep many old traditions. They supported the power of the church and the military.
- Liberals: This group wanted to make big changes. They aimed for more freedom and less power for the church and military.
The conservatives signed this treaty because they needed money and support. They hoped Spain would help them win the war against the liberals.
What the Treaty Included
The main part of the treaty was a loan from Spain to the Mexican conservatives. This money was meant to help them fight the war. The conservatives promised to pay back the loan if they won.
However, the liberals won the Reform War. This meant the new liberal government inherited the debt from the treaty. This added to Mexico's financial problems with European countries.
Why the Treaty Didn't Work
Even though it was signed, the Mon-Almonte Treaty never officially started. This means it never had any real power. The conservatives hoped it would bring European support, but it didn't happen.
At the same time, the liberal government also tried to get support from other countries. They signed the McLane-Ocampo Treaty with the United States. But like the Mon-Almonte Treaty, it also never became official.
See also
- Reform War
Images for kids
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Learn more about the Mon-Almonte Treaty for kids in Spanish.
