Breda, treaty of, 1667. Signed on 31 July, the treaty brought to an end the second Anglo-Dutch War. The most important clause in the long run left England in possession of New Netherlands, including New Amsterdam, renamed New York. The Navigation Act of 1651 was modified to allow the Dutch to bring to England exports from the southern Netherlands and from Germany. The vexed questions of search, contraband, and saluting were compromised.

J. A. Cannon

Breda, declaration of, 1660. In April 1660, while he was still in exile in Holland, Charles II issued the Breda declaration. It was a skilful political document, rightly described as ‘Hyde's masterpiece’, conciliatory but vague. It promised a general amnesty, save for some regicides, payment of arrears to Monck's troops, and an assurance that ‘tender consciences’ in religion would be respected. Most contentious issues were left to a free Parliament. But after the king's return in May 1660 and the breakdown of the Savoy conference, persecution of dissenters was resumed.

J. A. Cannon

Breda, Treaty of (1667) Peace agreement that ended the Second Dutch Wars with England. England gave up its claim to the Dutch East Indies but gained control of New York and New Jersey.