The Treaty of Concordia (I); How 2 Countries Share 1 Island.
Saint-Martin / Sint Maarten’s particular bi-nationality was sealed on March 23rd, 1648 when French and Dutch governing representatives ratified the Treaty of Concordia, thus ensuring the sharing, sovereignty and occupation of the island of Saint-Martin / Sint-Maarten.
At a time when survival for the remaining few settlers on the island was fragile, the treaty’s 9 articles aimed to set the rules for a peaceful cohabitation on such a small territory with resources.
However, a Franco-Dutch Convention signed on November 28th, 1839 stated the annulment of the 1648 Treaty and any agreements between both nations that might have occurred since, now over-ruled and replaced by the Convention of 1839.
Still, to this day, both French and Dutch seem to uphold the promises of the original treaty of 1648 as the foundation of their relationship.