Ukase of 1799 facts for kids
The Ukase of 1799 was a special rule or law made by Tsar Paul I of Russia. It was announced on July 8, 1799. This important rule helped to set the southern border of a place called Russian America. This area was where Russia had claimed land in North America.
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What Was the Ukase of 1799?
The Ukase of 1799 was a decree, which is like a big official order from a ruler. It was signed by Tsar Paul I, who was the emperor of Russia at that time. This decree was very important for Russia's lands across the Pacific Ocean.
Setting the Border for Russian America
One of the main things the Ukase of 1799 did was to claim a specific southern border for Russian America. This border was set along the 55th parallel north. Imagine lines of latitude on a globe; the 55th parallel north is one of those lines. This meant Russia was officially saying, "Our land goes down to this line!" Russian America included parts of what is now Alaska in the United States.
The Russian-American Company's Power
The Ukase of 1799 also gave a lot of power to a new company called the Russian-American Company (RAC). This company was formed from an older group called the United American Company. The RAC was given a special deal:
- It got a monopoly (meaning it was the only company allowed) to do business in Russian America.
- This monopoly also included the Kuril Islands, which are a chain of islands near Japan.
- This special right lasted for 20 years.
Why Was the Monopoly Important?
Having a monopoly meant that no other Russian fur traders could work in Russian America unless they were part of the Russian-American Company. This helped the company control all the valuable fur trade in the region. However, traders from other countries were still allowed to visit and trade. The company was also given permission to start new settlements or colonies wherever its leaders thought was a good idea.
What Happened Next?
The Ukase of 1799 was a big step for Russia's control in North America. Later, a new ruler, Tsar Alexander I, made another decree called the Ukase of 1821. This new rule changed some of the things from the 1799 Ukase.
