Treaty of Montevideo (1828)
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
What happened
The Empire of Brazil and the United Provinces of the Río de la Plata (later Argentina) made peace with British help from Lord John Ponsonby. Brazil and Buenos Aires had fought the Cisplatine War over the land on the east bank of the River Plate. Neither side could win, so with British help they met in Rio de Janeiro. They agreed that the disputed province would become an independent country.
Why it matters
Why it matters: The treaty created Uruguay as an independent state. It also guaranteed both sides free use of the Río de la Plata for fifteen years.
What came next
The treaty was ratified in Montevideo in October 1828, and Uruguay's first constitution followed in 1830.
Did you know?
Uruguay's Independence Day, 25 August, marks the rebels' 1825 declaration, not this treaty.
Timeline
- 19 April 1825The Thirty-Three Orientals land to start the revolt.
- 20 February 1827Battle of Ituzaingó.
- 27 August 1828The peace convention is signed in Rio de Janeiro.
- 4 October 1828Ratified in Montevideo.