The Articles of Capitulation of Quebec were finalized after a prolonged siege led by British General James Wolfe and his forces against the city of Quebec, which was defended by French Marquis de Montcalm. The siege began in the summer of that year, intensifying as the British aimed to capture the city, a vital stronghold for the French in North America. Facing dwindling supplies and reinforcements, the French defenders orchestrated a valiant effort to fend off the British assault, but the relentless pressure and tactical maneuvers of Wolfe proved decisive. The British forces mounted a successful surprise attack on September 13, 1759, in a battle known as the Battle of the Plains of Abraham, which ultimately led to the capture of both Montcalm and Quebec City itself.

Following this significant military victory, the Articles of Capitulation were signed on September 18, formally surrendering the city to the British. This capitulation not only secured Quebec for the British Empire but also represented a turning point in the French and Indian War, as it facilitated British expansion into Canada. The document laid out the terms under which the French troops would leave the city and ranked among the most important diplomatic agreements during the conflict, establishing the terms for the restoration of peace after prolonged hostilities.

The consequences of the capitulation extended far beyond military success; they set the stage for British dominance in Canada and fundamentally shifted the balance of power on the North American continent. The loss of Quebec marked the decline of French colonial presence in the region, subsequently leading to a series of territorial exchanges and restructuring in the ensuing years.