Second Treaty of San Ildefonso facts for kids
The Second Treaty of San Ildefonso was an important agreement signed on August 19, 1796. It was made between two powerful nations: the Spanish Empire and the First French Republic. This treaty changed how these countries worked together.
The main idea of the agreement was simple. France and Spain decided to become allies. This meant they would join their armies and navies. Their shared goal was to fight against their common enemy, the Kingdom of Great Britain. This treaty was a big step in the history of Europe.
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What Was the Treaty of San Ildefonso?
The Second Treaty of San Ildefonso was a military alliance. It brought Spain and France together. They agreed to support each other in times of war. This was especially important against Great Britain. Great Britain was a strong naval power.
Why Was This Treaty Signed?
In the late 1700s, Europe was a busy place. Many countries were at war. France was going through its revolution. It was fighting against several European monarchies. Spain had previously been an enemy of France. But their interests began to change.
Spain's Changing Role
Spain had been allied with Great Britain against France. This was during the War of the Pyrenees. However, Spain lost that war. They signed the Peace of Basel with France in 1795. This peace treaty ended their conflict. It also set the stage for a new friendship.
France's Need for Allies
France was fighting many enemies. They needed more allies. Spain had a large navy. They also had valuable colonies. An alliance with Spain would help France. It would strengthen their position against Great Britain.
Key Terms of the Agreement
The treaty had clear rules for the alliance. Both countries promised to help each other. They would do this if either was attacked. They also agreed to combine their military forces.
Military Support Details
The treaty stated specific numbers of ships and soldiers. If one country needed help, the other would provide it. For example, Spain agreed to provide ships for joint naval operations. France would also send troops if needed. This showed a strong commitment.
Trade and Colonial Impact
The treaty also affected trade. It opened up some trade routes between the two nations. This was good for their economies. It also meant their colonies could work together. This was especially true in the Americas.
Who Were the Main People Involved?
Important leaders from both countries signed the treaty. These were key figures in their governments. They believed this alliance was best for their nations.
Manuel Godoy of Spain
Manuel Godoy was a powerful Spanish minister. He was the chief minister for King Charles IV. Godoy played a big role in signing the treaty. He hoped it would protect Spain's interests. He also wanted to regain some lost territories.
Charles-François Delacroix of France
Charles-François Delacroix was the French foreign minister. He represented the French Republic. Delacroix worked to secure this alliance. He saw it as a way to strengthen France. It would help them in their wars against other European powers.
What Happened After the Treaty?
The Second Treaty of San Ildefonso had big effects. It led to a new war between Spain and Great Britain. This war lasted for several years.
War with Great Britain
Soon after the treaty, Spain declared war on Great Britain. This was in October 1796. The war involved naval battles. It also affected trade routes. Both sides tried to disrupt the other's shipping.
The combined French and Spanish navies were powerful. But Great Britain still had a very strong navy. Famous battles like the Battle of Cape St. Vincent took place. These battles showed the strength of the British fleet.
Later Treaties
The alliance between France and Spain changed over time. Later, they signed other agreements. The Third Treaty of San Ildefonso was signed in 1800. This treaty was about transferring land. It involved the Louisiana Territory in North America.
See also
- List of treaties
- First Treaty of San Ildefonso
- Third Treaty of San Ildefonso
