This article discusses the background of the Canons of Dort by looking at the historical context of the Synod of Dort, the person of Jacobus Arminius and his articles, and the place of the national government in the Synod of Dort. 

What is the historical background of the Synod of Dort, and why was it held? In 1618 to 1619 the Synod of Dort dealt with the teaching of James or Jacobus Arminius which became known as Arminianism. The outcome of this meeting was the writing of one of the Three Forms of Unity: the Canons of Dort. This article gives an historical account of this Synod meeting.

The Synod of Dort was held to deal with the errors of Arminianism. What is Arminianism? This article looks at the history of the person behind the name, Jacobus Arminius. It then discusses five areas where Arminianism differs with Calvinism.