The Treaty of Paris was signed on March 30, 1856, concluding a conflict that had significantly impacted the balance of power in Europe. Initiated in 1853, the Crimean War was primarily fought between the Russian Empire and a coalition of the Ottoman Empire, France, Britain, and Sardinia. The war was driven by issues related to territorial expansion, decline of the Ottoman Empire, and religious rights of Christians in the Ottoman territories, particularly as influenced by Russia's ambitions in the region.

The peace negotiations took place in Paris, with the key representatives being foreign ministers and diplomats from the major powers. The treaty resulted in several important stipulations; for example, the Black Sea was declared neutral territory, prohibiting any warships from entering, and the Russian Empire was forced to relinquish territory in the region, visibly diminishing its influence. Additionally, the integrity of the Ottoman Empire was upheld, with France and Britain promising to protect its sovereignty.

The signing of the treaty was heralded as a victory for the coalition forces and demonstrated the effectiveness of cooperative European diplomacy. However, it also exposed the vulnerabilities of the Russian Empire, notably leading Tsar Nicholas I to a reconsideration of his empire's military strategies and foreign policies. The treaty essentially rearranged alliances and set the stage for future diplomatic dynamics in Europe, marking a pivotal point in international relations.