Russian–Prussian surrender of fugitives and deserters: cartel conventions of the 1840s and 1850s

Abstract

The article analyses the extradition cartel conventions concluded between Tsarist Russia and the Kingdom of Prussia during the 1840s and 1850s. The first part is devoted to the discussion of the actual conditions that affected the procedures for the release of fugitives in the Kingdom of Poland after the failure of the November Uprising. The second part offers an in-depth analysis of the Russian-Prussian extradition agreement of 8/20 May 1844. Thirdly, the study examines the convention on the exchange of deserters and fugitives that was agreed upon on 27 July / 8 August 1857 on behalf of Tsar Alexander II and King Frederick William IV of Prussia. The conclusions draw attention to the repetitive character of a number of legal arrangements included in cartel conventions, but also emphasise that some provisions were subject to verification, depending on practical considerations and intentions.