Russo-American Treaty of 1824 facts for kids
The Russo-American Treaty of 1824 was an important agreement signed between Russia and the United States. It is also known as the Convention of 1824. This treaty was signed in St. Petersburg, Russia, on April 17, 1824. Both countries officially approved it on January 11, 1825, and it became active the next day.
The treaty had six main parts. Its most important outcome was that Russia gave up its claims to land on the Pacific Northwest coast of North America south of a specific line: 54°40′ north. This area was known to Americans as the Oregon Country.
What Was the Russo-American Treaty of 1824?
The Russo-American Treaty of 1824 was a formal agreement. It helped to set clear boundaries for land ownership in North America. Before this treaty, Russia claimed land along the Pacific coast, stretching quite far south. The United States also had interests in this region.
Why Was This Treaty Important?
This treaty was a big step in defining who owned what land in North America. It helped prevent future arguments over territory. After this treaty, another agreement was made. The Anglo-Russian Treaty of 1825 was signed between Russia and Great Britain. This second treaty set Russia's southernmost border in Russian America (which is now Alaska) at the same 54°40′N line. This line is still the southern tip of the Alaska Panhandle today.
Even though Russia's land claims were set, Russian traders could still trade in the area south of this line. At the same time, the Oregon dispute was happening. This was a disagreement between the United States and Britain about who had control over the Oregon region. This dispute had started because of an earlier treaty, the Adams–Onís Treaty, between the U.S. and Spain. That treaty had set Spain's former claims north of the 42nd Parallel (which is now the border between Oregon and California).
Who Signed the Treaty?
Several important people signed the 1824 treaty. Representing Russia was Karl Nesselrode, who was Russia's foreign minister at the time. He was called "Charles de Nesselrode" in the treaty document. Another Russian representative was Pyotr Ivanovich Poletika, mentioned as "Pierre de Poletica." The United States was represented by Henry Middleton. These individuals played key roles in reaching this important agreement.
