How did USA get Alaska? This intriguing question delves into the fascinating history of the United States and its acquisition of the largest state in the country. The story of Alaska’s incorporation into the United States is marked by political negotiations, economic interests, and the Alaskan Native population’s struggle for self-determination. In this article, we will explore the key events and factors that led to the purchase of Alaska by the United States, known as the Alaska Purchase.
The roots of the Alaska Purchase can be traced back to the early 19th century when Russia began to explore and settle the Alaskan region. Russia, facing financial difficulties and the need to consolidate its holdings in North America, decided to sell Alaska to the United States. The opportunity arose in 1867, during the presidency of Andrew Johnson, when the U.S. Secretary of State William Seward initiated negotiations with Russia.
Initial Negotiations and the Alaska Purchase Treaty
At first, the negotiations were met with skepticism, as many Americans believed that the purchase was a waste of money. However, Seward, recognizing the strategic importance of Alaska, was determined to acquire the territory. The negotiations led to the signing of the Alaska Purchase Treaty on March 30, 1867. The treaty was finalized on April 9, 1867, with the United States paying Russia $7.2 million for the land, which was roughly equivalent to two cents per acre.
The Alaska Purchase faced strong opposition in the U.S. Congress, as many believed that the price was too high and that the territory was of little value. However, President Johnson, who was a strong advocate for the purchase, managed to get the treaty ratified, and on October 18, 1867, Alaska became a U.S. territory.
Alaska’s Strategic Importance and Economic Potential
The Alaska Purchase was motivated by several factors, including strategic and economic considerations. Alaska’s vast natural resources, such as gold, timber, and fish, made it an attractive acquisition for the United States. Additionally, the territory’s strategic location provided a buffer against potential Russian expansion and served as a gateway to the Pacific Ocean.
The discovery of gold in the Klondike region of Yukon, Canada, in 1896, further solidified Alaska’s economic potential. The Gold Rush attracted thousands of prospectors and settlers to the region, leading to the establishment of towns and infrastructure. As a result, Alaska’s population grew significantly, and the territory’s economic value increased.
The Struggle for Statehood and Native Rights
The Alaskan Native population, including the Inuit, Aleut, and Athabaskan tribes, had been living in the region for thousands of years before the arrival of European explorers and settlers. The Alaska Purchase brought changes to their way of life, as they were required to adapt to the new political and economic realities.
The struggle for Native rights and self-determination became a significant issue in Alaska’s history. In 1884, the Alaska Native Brotherhood was founded to advocate for Native rights, and in 1912, the Alaska Native Sisterhood was established to support women’s rights within the Native community. It wasn’t until 1959 that Alaska was granted statehood, becoming the 49th state of the United States.
In conclusion, the United States’ acquisition of Alaska is a complex story that intertwines political, economic, and social factors. The Alaska Purchase was a strategic move that secured the country’s interests in the Pacific region and paved the way for the development of the state’s rich natural resources. However, it also brought about significant changes for the Alaskan Native population, whose struggle for rights and self-determination continues to this day.
