The Convention of Nymegen (alt. spelling Nijmegen or Nymwegen) was a treaty signed between England and Spain in 1573. The treaty pledged that the English government would cease support for raids on Spanish shipping in the West Indies and Caribbean by English privateers such as Drake and Hawkins.
Contents
The original source of the dispute was Elizabeth's seizure of gold from Spanish money ships in English ports in November 1568. Chased by privateers, the ships carrying 400,000 florins sought shelter in Devon and Cornwall ports. The subsequent absence of funds later led to a revolt by the unpaid Spanish army which in the Low Countries resulted in the sacking of Antwerp in 1576, known as the Spanish Fury. As part of the Convention of Nymegen, Elizabeth returned this seized gold to Genoese bankers.
The treaty also laid out provisions for resumed diplomatic and commercial relations between Spain and England. Trading had been suspended but had proven far too damaging to both countries to not be reinstated. The treaty was based on the principles that all merchants would be compensated for losses, and that neither side would shelter or protect rebels or privateers. Furthermore, it was agreed that the Duke of Alva would leave the Netherlands, thereby reducing tensions.
These provisions were formalised in the Treaty of Bristol in August, 1574.
Participants
The treaty was signed by Elizabeth I and representatives of the Spanish commander, the Duke of Alva.
Motivation
Neutrality seemed the best policy for Elizabeth, who favoured a reactive, expedient foreign policy. There seemed little point in supporting the remaining rebels in the provinces (Netherlands) as Spain's military power there grew and France increasingly withdrew from foreign affairs, embroiled in its own civil war.
Consequences
Trade resumed between England and Spain and relations improved. Elizabeth resisted pressure from her advisors Walsingham and Leicester to openly offer help to William of Orange in the Netherlands. She did not, however, interfere when he recruited Protestant volunteers in England to his cause.