This study focuses on the conflicting aims and deeds of the Russian government and the Polish nationally-minded student youth in the situation which emerged after the closure of the universities in Warsaw and Wilno (Vilnius) in 1832. Thousands of Polish students studied in Russian universities, constituting a considerable portion of the student body. They formed conspiracies, student unions and study circles. Their relations with Russian students entailed both enmity and co-operation. The book analyzes the idea of what it meant to be a Polish student in Russia between 1832 and 1863, and reveals secret disagreements between government politicians concerning the Polish question at the universities.