description Oregon Treaty Overview
The Oregon Treaty of 1846 between the United States and Britain fixed the boundary of the Oregon Territory at the 49th parallel, peacefully dividing the jointly occupied Pacific Northwest and averting a potential war.
help Oregon Treaty FAQ
What did the Oregon Treaty of 1846 establish?
The treaty established the 49th parallel north as the international boundary between the United States and British North America in the Oregon Territory. This agreement peacefully resolved the Oregon boundary dispute and avoided a potential war between the two nations.
Why is Vancouver Island not part of the United States if the border is at the 49th parallel?
The Oregon Treaty specifically made an exception for Vancouver Island, allowing the British to retain the entire island despite its southern portion dipping below the 49th parallel. This compromise prevented the US from claiming the strategically important naval base at Esquimalt.
What was "Fifty-Forty or Fight!" and how does it relate to the Oregon Treaty?
"Fifty-Forty or Fight!" was an aggressive 1844 campaign slogan associated with US President James K. Polk, demanding the US border be pushed all the way to 54°40′ north latitude. Polk ultimately compromised on the 49th parallel to secure the 1846 treaty and avoid a two-front war with Mexico and Britain.
Did the Oregon Treaty completely resolve all border issues in the Pacific Northwest?
While it resolved the main territorial dispute, the treaty's ambiguous wording regarding the channel boundary through the San Juan Islands led to the Pig War of 1859. The maritime border in the San Juan archipelago was not definitively settled until 1872 via arbitration by the German Emperor.
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