Jay-Gardoqui Treaty

The Jay–Gardoqui Treaty of 1786 was a proposed agreement between the United States and Spain that would have granted Spain exclusive navigation rights on the Mississippi River for 25 years in exchange for opening Spanish ports to American trade. Negotiated by John Jay and Diego de Gardoqui, the treaty promised commercial benefits but was strongly opposed by southern leaders, including James Madison and James Monroe, who viewed access to the Mississippi as vital for western settlers. The treaty was ultimately rejected by the Continental Congress, highlighting the weaknesses of the federal government under the Articles of Confederation and helping fuel support for a stronger Constitution.