Treaty of Utrecht

The Treaty of Utrecht, signed in 1713, was a series of agreements that ended the War of the Spanish Succession, a conflict involving major European powers over who should inherit the Spanish throne. The treaty established a balance of power by recognizing Philip V as king of Spain, while ensuring that Spain and France would not unite. Various territories were redistributed among Britain, France, the Dutch Republic, and others, granting Britain significant colonial gains. This treaty marked a shift in European politics, promoting stability and reducing conflict through diplomacy.