Purchase of Alaska

Definition

The Purchase of Alaska, completed in 1867, was the acquisition of Alaska from Russia by the United States for $7.2 million, significantly expanding U.S. territory. This transaction, often referred to as 'Seward's Folly' after Secretary of State William H. Seward, was initially criticized but later recognized for its strategic and economic value, particularly due to the discovery of natural resources in the region.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Purchase of Alaska was negotiated and finalized on March 30, 1867, marking a significant expansion of U.S. territory by over 586,000 square miles.
2. Initially seen as a foolish expenditure by critics, the Purchase is now viewed as a strategic move that provided access to vast natural resources such as gold, oil, and fish.
3. The transaction took place during the administration of President Andrew Johnson and was championed by Secretary of State William H. Seward, who believed it would enhance America's global standing.
4. The purchase cost about two cents per acre, making it one of the most economically advantageous land deals in history.
5. After the discovery of gold in Alaska in the late 19th century and later oil in the 20th century, public perception shifted dramatically, showcasing the region's immense economic potential.

Review Questions

• How did the Purchase of Alaska reflect the ideas behind Manifest Destiny and U.S. expansionism during the 19th century?
  • The Purchase of Alaska exemplified the ideals of Manifest Destiny as it demonstrated the belief that America was destined to expand its territory across North America. This acquisition allowed the U.S. to extend its influence further into the Pacific and added significant land that would eventually provide valuable resources. The purchase aligned with the broader narrative of American expansionism that characterized much of the 19th century.
• Evaluate the immediate reactions to the Purchase of Alaska among American citizens and politicians at the time, focusing on criticism and support.
  • Upon its announcement, many Americans criticized the Purchase as 'Seward's Folly' or 'Seward's Icebox,' seeing it as a wasteful expenditure for a barren land with no apparent value. However, supporters argued that acquiring Alaska would strengthen U.S. presence in the Arctic and provide strategic advantages against foreign powers. Over time, as resource potential became evident, public opinion gradually shifted to recognize its worth.
• Assess how the Purchase of Alaska impacted U.S. foreign relations and territorial ambitions in subsequent decades.
  • The Purchase of Alaska significantly enhanced U.S. foreign relations by signaling a commitment to territorial expansion beyond contiguous borders. It paved the way for future negotiations and acquisitions in North America and strengthened America's position against other powers in the Pacific region. Moreover, it set a precedent for future territorial purchases and acquisitions, influencing American policy as it moved into becoming an imperial power in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Related terms

Manifest Destiny:

The 19th-century doctrine that the expansion of the United States across the American continents was both justified and inevitable.

William H. Seward: The U.S. Secretary of State under President Abraham Lincoln and Andrew Johnson, who orchestrated the Purchase of Alaska.

Russian America: The name given to the territory in North America that was owned by Russia before being sold to the United States; it included parts of present-day Alaska.