Purchase of Alaska from Russia

On March 30, 1867, the United States made a significant expansion of its territory through the Purchase of Alaska from Russia. This transaction, often regarded as "Seward's Folly" after U.S. Secretary of State William H. Seward, who orchestrated it, involved the U.S. acquiring approximately 586,412 square miles of land at a cost of $7.2 million – roughly two cents per acre. The motivation behind Russia's willingness to sell this vast and resource-rich region stemmed from financial difficulties and a strategic decision to reduce their presence in North America. This deal was initially met with skepticism in the U.S., as many Americans saw Alaska as a barren wasteland. However, this perception dramatically changed with the Klondike Gold Rush in the late 1890s, revealing Alaska's vast natural resources. The Purchase of Alaska significantly shaped the future development of the United States, contributing to its economic growth and strategic positioning. It stands as a testament to visionary diplomacy and a bold approach to territorial expansion. #AlaskaPurchase #SewardsFolly #USAHistory #RussianAmerica #TerritorialExpansion