The Treaty of Antwerp was a pivotal agreement signed between the Spanish crown and the Dutch Republic, concluding a lengthy period of hostilities that was the Eighty Years' War. The conflict, which begun in 1568, stemmed primarily from the Dutch revolt against Spanish rule, fueled by issues of taxation, religious freedom, and local governance. By the early 17th century, the toll of continuous warfare prompted both parties to seek a cessation of hostilities, leading to significant diplomatic negotiations in Antwerp.

Negotiations were characterized by a series of complex discussions, where representatives from both sides, including notable figures such as Cardinal Francisco de Lemos for Spain and Johan van Oldenbarnevelt for the Dutch, worked to delineate terms of peace. The treaty not only facilitated the halting of military engagements but also led to the recognition of the Dutch Republic's independence, albeit implicitly. An important aspect of the treaty was the provision for the exchange of prisoners and the re-establishment of commercial ties between Spain and the Netherlands, ultimately aiding in economic recovery.

The twelve-year truce allowed both nations to stabilize after years of warfare. For Spain, the treaty afforded them a strategic respite to manage their resources and deal with their empire's challenges. For the Dutch, it represented an essential step towards securing their independence and solidifying their social and political structures. Areas formerly contested in the war, such as Flanders, would experience a relative peace, stimulating trade and allowing recovery in local economies, which was crucial for their emerging maritime empire.