Treaty of Paris (1657) facts for kids

The Treaty of Paris was an important agreement signed in March 1657. It created an alliance between England (led by Oliver Cromwell) and France (led by King Louis XIV). They joined forces against Spain, which was led by King Philip IV.

This treaty brought together two ongoing wars: the Anglo-Spanish War (1654–1660) and the Franco-Spanish War (1635–1659). It showed that France and England, who had been enemies, were starting to become friends.

Before this treaty, France had supported the Royalists, who were followers of the English King Charles II. But as France grew closer to Cromwell's government, Charles II made his own agreement with Spain in 1656, called the Treaty of Brussels (1656).

What the Treaty Said

The Treaty of Paris outlined how England and France would work together.

Fighting Spain in Flanders

England agreed to help France in its war against Spain. This fighting would take place in a region called Flanders.

France promised to provide a large army of 20,000 soldiers. England would contribute 6,000 soldiers and its powerful navy. Their combined forces would attack important Spanish fortresses along the coast of Flanders. These fortresses were Gravelines, Dunkirk, and Mardyck.

Who Got What Land

After the war, the treaty decided who would get control of these fortresses. Gravelines would be given to France. Dunkirk and Mardyck would go to England.

England especially wanted Dunkirk. This was because pirates, known as "privateers," were using Dunkirk as a base. They were attacking English trading ships and causing a lot of damage. For Oliver Cromwell and England, gaining control of Dunkirk became a very important goal. It was not just a good idea, but a necessary one to protect their trade.

See also

In Spanish: Tratado de París (1657) para niños