The signing of the Santa María–Calatrava Treaty took place against a backdrop of post-independence negotiations between Mexico and Spain. Mexico had declared its independence from Spain in 1821 after a decade of war, and the two nations faced years of strained relations characterized by diplomatic disagreements and recognition issues. The treaty, signed on December 28, 1836, was a result of extensive negotiations aimed at resolving these disputes, which had lingered since Mexico's break from Spanish rule. It represented a moment of closure for a relationship marred by conflict and a step towards establishing peaceful relations.

The treaty was significant not only for its acknowledgment of Mexico’s independent status but also for its implications on the international stage. By signing the Santa María–Calatrava Treaty, Spain conceded to diplomatic realities and signaled a willingness to engage with Mexico as a sovereign nation. This agreement was critical in solidifying Mexico’s standing among other nations, as it was one of the first recognitions from a former colonial power. The negotiations were also influenced by changing political dynamics within Spain, where internal challenges led to a reevaluation of colonial policies.

Furthermore, the treaty addressed various economic and political disputes that had arisen in the face of independence. It laid the groundwork for further bilateral agreements and relations between the two countries. This new phase in Mexico-Spain relations was crucial, fostering academic, cultural, and economic ties that would grow in the years to follow. The Santa María–Calatrava Treaty is often viewed as a landmark agreement that not only recognized Mexico’s independence but also marked the beginning of a new diplomatic era for both nations.