Treaty of Washington (1900) facts for kids

The Treaty of Washington of 1900 was an important agreement signed on November 7, 1900. It officially started working on March 23, 1901, after both sides agreed to its terms. This treaty helped clear up any confusion from an earlier agreement, the Treaty of Paris from 1898. It specifically explained which lands Spain gave to the United States. This treaty is also sometimes called the Cession Treaty.

What Was the Treaty of Washington?

The Treaty of Washington was signed to make sure everyone understood what land belonged to the United States after the Spanish–American War. The earlier Treaty of Paris had ended that war. However, there was a small part of that treaty, called Article III, that needed more details.

Clarifying Land Ownership

The new treaty made it very clear that Spain gave up all its rights and claims to certain islands. These islands were part of the Philippine Archipelago. They were located just outside the main lines described in the 1898 Treaty of Paris.

Islands Included in the Agreement

The treaty specifically mentioned a few islands. These included the islands of Cagayan (also known as Mapun), Sulu, and Sibutu. It also included any smaller islands connected to them. The agreement stated that these islands were now fully part of the land given to the United States. It was as if they had been clearly listed in the first treaty.

The Payment for the Islands

In return for Spain clearly giving up these islands, the United States agreed to pay Spain some money. The amount was one hundred thousand dollars ($100,000). This payment was made within six months after both countries officially agreed to the treaty.

See also

In Spanish: Tratado de Washington (1900) para niños