How USA bought Alaska from Russia for US$ 7.2 million only

The acquisition of Alaska by the United States from Russia in 1867 was a fascinating event in American history. 

At the time, the territory was seen as a vast and remote wilderness with little economic or strategic value. However, as the decades passed, it would become an important part of the American landscape, providing valuable resources and a strategic location for defence.

The story of how America brought Alaska from Russia began in the early 19th century. Russia had established a presence in Alaska in the late 1700s, establishing a string of trading posts along the coast. 

However, by the mid-1800s, Alaska's Russian colony faced serious financial difficulties. The fur trade, which had been the mainstay of the economy, was in decline, and the cost of maintaining the colony was becoming increasingly burdensome.

At the same time, the United States was expanding rapidly, pushing westward and looking for new territories to add to its growing empire. As early as the 1820s, American traders and explorers had made contact with the Russian colonists in Alaska. There were occasional discussions about the possibility of the United States purchasing the territory. However, it wasn't until the mid-1860s that serious negotiations began.

In 1867, Secretary of State William H. Seward negotiated a treaty with Russia to purchase Alaska. The treaty was signed on March 30, 1867, and the United States paid USD 7.2 million for the territory, which at the time included what is now Alaska as well as a small portion of Canada. 

The purchase was controversial at the time, with many Americans questioning the wisdom of spending so much money on what was seen as barren and worthless land.
Despite the initial scepticism, the acquisition of Alaska proved to be a smart move for the United States. Gold was discovered in the territory within a few years of the purchase, and a gold rush ensued. 

The Klondike Gold Rush of 1896-1899 brought tens of thousands of prospectors to Alaska, boosting the economy and transforming the territory into a bustling centre of activity.

In addition to its mineral wealth, Alaska proved strategically important for the United States. During World War II, Alaska was a key location for the defence of the Pacific Northwest and was used as a base for American forces in the Aleutian Islands. The territory's proximity to Russia made it an important site for intelligence gathering and military operations during the Cold War.

Today, Alaska is a vital part of the United States, both economically and strategically. The state is home to a wealth of natural resources, including oil, gas, timber, and fish, and is a major producer of seafood for the U.S. market. 

The state's location also makes it an important gateway to Asia. The Port of Anchorage is a key transportation hub for goods and people moving between the United States and Asia.

The acquisition of Alaska by the United States from Russia was an important moment in American history. It demonstrates the United States' willingness to take risks and pursue new opportunities, despite scepticism and opposition. It also underscores the importance of strategic thinking and long-term planning, as Alaska's value to the United States was not immediately apparent but became clear over time.

As we reflect on the history of the United States and its relationship with Alaska, we can learn valuable lessons about the importance of being open to new ideas and pursuing opportunities even when they seem uncertain or risky. We can also appreciate the value of perseverance and patience, as the benefits of the acquisition of Alaska seemed zero at the beginning but proved precious later.

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