On January 14, the United States marks the anniversary of the ratification of the Treaty of Paris in 1784. This treaty ended the Revolutionary War and recognized the independence of all 13 original colonies.
The end of hostilities with Britain was officially declared on April 11, 1783, after eight years of conflict. Following this, American representatives Benjamin Franklin, John Jay, and John Adams were sent to negotiate peace. The resulting treaty was signed on September 3, 1783, nearly two years after British forces surrendered at Yorktown.
At that time, under the Articles of Confederation, a quorum of nine states was required for ratification. On January 14, 1784, delegates gathered in Annapolis, Maryland. With South Carolina casting the final vote, unanimous ratification was achieved.
In a statement marking this occasion and the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary of independence, it was said: “On January 14, 1784, the Second Continental Congress ratified the decisive Treaty of Paris—the binding accord that ended the Revolutionary War, secured American independence, and triumphantly declared all 13 colonies ‘to be free sovereign and Independent States.’ Today, we celebrate this monumental milestone, and we pay tribute to the grit, greatness, and unyielding resolve of the patriots of 1776 who pledged their lives, fortunes, and sacred honor for freedom’s cause.”
The statement continued: “The cessation of hostilities with the British Empire, proclaimed on April 11, 1783, ended 8 years of brutal warfare and the most significant struggle for freedom the world had ever seen. After the fighting ended, the difficult and lengthy peace talks required strategic negotiation, moral clarity, and skillful diplomacy. To achieve lasting peace, the Second Continental Congress sent a trio of true American titans—Benjamin Franklin, John Jay, and John Adams—who defended American interests and fortified our fledgling Republic. The treaty, signed on September 3, 1783… resulted in a glorious affirmation of American sovereignty.”
It further noted: “Under the Articles of Confederation…ratification of the treaty required a quorum of nine States. On this day 242 years ago…the delegates convened in a State House in Annapolis…and with…South Carolina…the treaty was unanimously ratified…and our birthright of freedom was finally secured.”
Reflecting on present-day significance as America approaches its semiquincentennial year: “This year—our 250th year of glorious American independence—we reaffirm the righteous principles that breathed life into our Republic more than two centuries ago. We renew our resolve to uphold and defend peace through strength…the rule of law…loyalty to our citizens…and faith in Almighty God. Above all…we vow that…the timeless truths forged by our forefathers will forever remain a mighty beacon…to…the entire world.”
