Treaty of Dover

Definition

The Treaty of Dover was a secret agreement signed in 1670 between England and France, primarily aimed at strengthening the alliance against the Dutch Republic during the Third Anglo-Dutch War. It involved mutual support and military assistance, showcasing the complex political maneuvers of the time and laying the groundwork for future conflicts and territorial ambitions in Anglo-Saxon England.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Treaty of Dover was signed on June 1, 1670, between King Charles II of England and King Louis XIV of France, reflecting a shift in alliances during a time of heightened tensions.
2. One key provision of the treaty included England's promise to support France in military endeavors against the Dutch, illustrating how alliances were often formed for mutual benefit.
3. The treaty also included a secret clause where Charles II would convert to Catholicism, which was significant given England's Protestant majority and ongoing religious tensions.
4. The Treaty of Dover was part of Charles II's broader strategy to consolidate power and strengthen England's position in European politics amid ongoing conflicts.
5. This treaty ultimately influenced later political dynamics, leading to increased opposition against Charles II and contributing to a more complex relationship between England, France, and the Dutch Republic.

Review Questions

• How did the Treaty of Dover impact England's foreign relations in the context of its conflicts with the Dutch Republic?
  • The Treaty of Dover significantly impacted England's foreign relations by solidifying an alliance with France against the Dutch Republic. This collaboration allowed both nations to coordinate military efforts during the Third Anglo-Dutch War, demonstrating a strategic shift in alliances. By aligning with France, England aimed to gain an upper hand in maritime dominance and colonial competition, which marked a critical moment in its foreign policy.
• Discuss the implications of Charles II's agreement to convert to Catholicism as part of the Treaty of Dover on internal politics within England.
  • Charles II's agreement to convert to Catholicism under the Treaty of Dover had profound implications for internal politics in England. This decision alienated many Protestant subjects and sparked fears of Catholic resurgence within a predominantly Protestant nation. It fueled opposition movements, including those from Parliament and dissenting groups who viewed this as a betrayal, complicating Charles's rule and contributing to tensions that would challenge his authority throughout his reign.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of the Treaty of Dover on subsequent conflicts involving England, France, and other European powers.
  • The long-term effects of the Treaty of Dover set a precedent for future conflicts involving England and France, influencing European power dynamics well into the 18th century. The treaty illustrated how secretive alliances could shift the balance of power, leading to heightened tensions among European states. As alliances formed under this treaty evolved, they contributed to larger geopolitical conflicts, such as the War of Spanish Succession, ultimately reshaping colonial pursuits and international relations among emerging powers during this period.

Related terms

Anglo-Dutch Wars: A series of naval conflicts fought between England and the Dutch Republic during the 17th century, largely driven by trade competition and colonial expansion.

Louis XIV: The King of France from 1643 to 1715, whose reign marked a period of significant territorial expansion and consolidation of royal power, influencing European politics.

Restoration Settlement: The political and social restoration in England following the English Civil War, leading to the reinstatement of the monarchy under Charles II in 1660.