'The Queen's Neutrality Proclamation'

'The Queen's Neutrality Proclamation'

Official Declaration of British Neutrality in the American Civil War released by Queen Victoria

This document not only established Great Britain's stance concerning events in the brewing conflict between the North and South, but also recognized the belligerent status of the two combatants. In the aftermath of its release, the provisions of the initial statement would be further adjusted by Foreign Minister Earl Russell, expanded to affect British maritime law and belligerent access to their ports and territorial waters.

The action also angered the North, as it afforded the same status to the Confederacy as the Union. The South took the gesture as a potential doorway to future recognition and support for their cause of independence.

Downing Street, London;

Library of Congress - The Alfred Whital Stern Collection of Lincolniana; Digitized online at https://www.loc.gov/item/scsm000229/

Downing Street, London

February 1, 1862

Public Domain

English

Text

Government Document