This document was read by Tsar Alexander I to the members of the Four Estates (some 125 in number) representing the various classes in Finnish society. It finally released the Finns from their allegiance to the Swedish Crown and provided Finland with a constitutional framework which regulated the affairs of the Grand Duchy until the overthrow of Tsar Nicholas II in 1917. The Finns considered that, in return for their recognizing the Tsar as their lawful monarch, they had been promised Russian acceptance of the Finnish Constitution, but later Tsars held that no human agency could usurp the Godgiven right of the Tsars to rule as absolute monarchs.

We, Alexander I, by the Grace of God Emperor and Autocrat of all the Russias, etc., etc., etc., Grand Duke of Finland, etc., etc., etc., do make it known: That Providence having placed Us in possession of the Grand Duchy of Finland, We have desired, by the present Act, to confirm and ratify the religion and fundamental laws of the Land, as well as the privileges and rights which each Estate in the said Grand Duchy in particular, and all the inhabitants in general, be their position high or low, have hitherto enjoyed according to the Constitution. We promise to maintain all these benefits and laws firm, unchanged, and in full force. In confirmation whereof We have signed this Act of Assurance with Our own hand.