Archive · 15 Aug 2025
How the U.S. Acquired Alaska From Russia
Imagine the U.S. buying a big, icy piece of land called Alaska from Russia way back in 1867 for about the cost of a fancy house.
People thought it was a silly purchase at first!
Russia wanted to sell because they weren't making much money from it anymore.
The U.S. thought it could be a good idea, for trading with Asia.
Years later, gold was found there, making some people rich.
Then, even bigger, they found lots of oil.
So, what seemed like a bad deal at first turned out to be a pretty smart move for the U.S.
The U.S. acquired Alaska from Russia in 1867 for $7.2 million.
The purchase was initially criticized but later proved valuable due to its resources.
Russia was motivated to sell due to declining profits from the fur trade and the Crimean War.
The discovery of gold in the 1880s and oil in 1968 significantly boosted Alaska's economic importance.
The purchase was spearheaded by U.S. Secretary of State William Seward, who envisioned expansion.
- Who
- The U.S. and Russia.
- What
- The U.S. acquired Alaska from Russia.
- When
- The deal was signed on March 30, 1867.
- Where
- Alaska.
- Why
- Russia was losing money and the U.S. wanted to expand.
Initial Criticisms
Eventual Benefits
Viewpoints on Alaska Purchase
Initial Criticisms
Many saw the purchase as a waste of money.
Eventual Benefits
U.S. Secretary of State William Seward saw potential for expansion and trade.
- Purchase Price
- $7.2 million
- Year of Purchase
- 1867
- Seller
- Russia
- Buyer
- United States
- Initial Criticism
- "Seward's Folly"
- Key Resources
- Gold and Oil