The Treaty of Paris (1783) ended the American Revolutionary War and had several key terms:
- Britain recognized the United States as free, sovereign, and independent states, relinquishing all claims to governance, property, and territory.
- Boundaries of the United States were established, including those with British North America, with land surrendered by Britain.
- The U.S. was granted fishing rights in the Grand Banks, off Newfoundland, and in the Gulf of Saint Lawrence.
- Both sides agreed to pay debts owed to each other and third parties such as Spain and the Netherlands.
- The U.S. Congress was to recommend the restoration of confiscated Loyalist properties, and the U.S. would prevent future confiscations.
- Prisoners of war on both sides were to be released, and Britain would withdraw its forces without taking American property.
- Both countries would have perpetual access to the Mississippi River.
- Territories captured before the treaty would be returned without compensation.
- Ratification of the treaty was to occur within six months.
These terms aimed to ensure peace, establish boundaries, restore property rights, and set navigation rights after the war.
