Question

Majesty the Emperor of all the Russias shall appoint, with convenient despatch, an agent or agents for the purpose of formally delivering to a similar agent or agents appointed on behalf of the United States, the territory, dominion, property, dependencies and appurtenances which are ceded as above, and for doing any other act which may be necessary in regard thereto. But the cession, with the right of immediate possession, is nevertheless to be deemed complete and absolute on the exchange of ratifications, without waiting for such formal delivery. What is the purpose of this article ?

Answer 1

The article explains the process of transferring territories, notably from Russia to the United States. It details that this process requires agents to be appointed by both nations to execute this process, but is complete once ratifications have been exchanged, as per the US Constitution which gives Congress the power to dispose of and regulate territories.

Step-by-step explanation:

The purpose of this article, which discusses the delivery and transfer of territories between nations, is to set out the terms and procedures for a cession, or transfer, of territory from the 'Emperor of all the Russias' to the United States. This legal framework stipulates that an agent or agents should be appointed by both parties to formally complete the process. However, it underlines that the cession is deemed complete and absolute once the ratifications have been exchanged, without waiting for a formal transfer. This implies that the change in sovereignty occurs immediately upon exchange of ratifications.

In accordance with the Constitution, the Congress has the power to dispose of and make rules regarding Territories or other Properties of the United States. This aligns with the respective roles and powers of each governing body, highlighted in Section 4.

Learn more about Territory Transfer