Russia had decided to sell Alaska, but the question was: how would America buy it? At the time, most Americans couldn’t imagine what they would do with such a cold, icy region. However, the U.S. Secretary of State, William H. Seward, had a bold vision. Seward thought, “Alaska is more than just ice. It could be crucial for America’s future.” He took Russia’s offer seriously, but the process wasn’t straightforward. The U.S. had just emerged from the Civil War, and its economy was still fragile. The public thought this deal would be a waste, but Seward was determined.
Seward began negotiations with Russia’s ambassador, Eduard de Stoeckl. In 1867, Russia proposed to sell Alaska for USD 7.2 million. At the time, this amount equated to approximately $12 million today. The story takes a dramatic turn when, on the night of March 30, 1867, this historic deal was finalized. Hours of negotiation between Seward and Ambassador Stoeckl finally led to the signing of the Treaty of Cession, and America officially purchased Alaska.
On March 31, 1867, Alaska officially became part of the United States. At the time, no one could foresee its true value. But in 1896, the discovery of gold in Alaska’s Klondike region brought the area into the global spotlight. The Klondike Gold Rush turned Alaska into a major discussion point worldwide. Later, it was revealed that Alaska held vast reserves of oil and natural gas. The region became strategically important for America in terms of defense and trade.
Years later, when Alaska began contributing significantly to the U.S. economy, those who once mocked Seward began praising him. Today, Alaska is not only the largest state in the U.S. but also one of the most prosperous regions.
Alaska’s priceless treasure
In the 19th century, when gold was discovered, Alaska turned into a dream destination for the wealthy. It holds some of the largest reserves of oil and gas in the U.S. today, playing a crucial role in the country’s energy needs. The state’s seas are teeming with fish, making its fishing industry world-renowned. Alaska’s dense forests are home to countless trees, invaluable for timber.
In the 1950s, Alaska revealed massive oil reserves when the largest oil deposit in Prudhoe Bay was discovered. But Alaska is not just valuable for oil and gold. Its natural beauty is a treasure in itself. The state boasts thousands of glaciers, some of which are as large as entire cities.
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Publish date : 2025-01-13 17:48:00
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