What was the primary outcome of the Webster-Ashburton Treaty?

The primary outcome of the Webster-Ashburton Treaty was the settlement of U.S.-Canadian boundary disputes. Signed in 1842 between the United States and Great Britain, this treaty specifically addressed several contentious areas along the border, particularly in northeastern Maine and the Great Lakes region. As a result, it defined the boundary line between the U.S. and British North America (now Canada) in many areas, leading to greater territorial clarity and reduced tensions between the two nations. This was significant during a period marked by expansion and competing territorial claims, establishing a more amicable relationship between the U.S. and Britain, especially regarding border governance and navigation issues.

The other options relate to different historical contexts. The Oregon Territory issues were part of separate discussions that culminated in a treaty in 1846, not the Webster-Ashburton Treaty. A military alliance with Britain was not established; the treaty rather focused on boundary resolution. Lastly, the War of 1812 concluded long before the Webster-Ashburton Treaty was negotiated and signed, making this option irrelevant to the outcomes of the treaty.