Pinckney's Treaty (1795): Spain-U.S. Borders & Mississippi Navigation

The key agreement between Spain and the United States was the Treaty of San Lorenzo (October 27, 1795), known in the U.S. as Pinckney's Treaty (negotiated by Thomas Pinckney).

Core Provisions

• Southern Boundary: Fixed at the 31st parallel north (current FL/AL/MS northern border), resolving disputes over West Florida.
• Mississippi River Navigation: Guaranteed U.S. free navigation of the entire river and right of deposit at New Orleans (duty-free for 3 years, renewable).
• Border Commission: Joint survey team to mark the line (Andrew Ellicott led U.S. effort).
• Native American Relations: Both pledged to restrain cross-border raids by allied tribes.

Significance

Opened the Ohio/Mississippi valleys to American settlement and commerce; weakened Spanish position; preceded Louisiana Purchase (1803). Ratified by Senate 1796; proclaimed 1796.