America's Historic Purchase of Alaska from Russia in 1867

Ancient records

On March 30, 1867, the United States completed a historic deal when it purchased Alaska from the Russian Empire for $7.2 million. According to recent valuations, the purchase cost was worth about $117 million in 2021. This article delves into the intriguing background, motivations, and fascinating aftermath of this transaction.

Buying and Selling

It all began in 1866 when the Russian government offered the territory for sale to the United States. Driven by concerns about the vulnerability of its far-flung possessions in North America, Russia sought to sell Alaska. The Secretary of State William H. Seward, known for his acumen, seized the opportunity and avidly pursued the deal with his Russian counterpart, Edouard de Stoeckl, the Russian Minister to the United States.

Strategic and Financial Reasons

The Czar of Russia, Alexander II, had two primary reasons for selling Alaska. The first was its strategic significance; Russia felt unable to defend Alaska from its enemies due to poor logistical support and insufficient military routes. Russia’s enemies holding Alaska would jeopardize its defenses of Eastern Russia. The second reason revolved around financial considerations. The Russian imperial treasury was in a dire state, and maintaining Alaska was not generating enough revenue to justify the expenditure. Instead, the money was being used to fund naval and military efforts elsewhere.

The Deal

The detailed negotiations culminated in the sale, which was officially sealed by the Treaty of Cession. The treaty was ratified by the United States Senate on April 9, 1867. Colonel Henry S. Gannett and Edward Taussig were the American agents who signed the document. The deal officially transferred Alaska to the United States on October 18, 1867.

Timeline and Aftermath

While Russia sold its North American territories, it was destined for much more than just a one-time transaction. Within 92 years, Alaska and Hawaii both joined the Union as states. Here is a simplified timeline:

1867: Land was officially purchased from Russia. 1912: Alaska became an organized incorporated territory. 1959: Alaska became the 49th state and Hawaii became the 50th state.

Statehood and Beyond

During its early years, Alaska was a military department, then a district, before being recognized as an organized incorporated territory in 1912. This transition was a crucial step towards statehood, paving the way for its eventual admission to the Union. Interestingly, the first colonial presence was predominantly confined to southern coastal locations, with most of them being on islands.

As for Hawaii, its road to statehood was more straightforward. In 1959, it became the 50th state, making it a significant milestone in American history. This juxtaposition of timelines highlights the diverse paths nations take to achieve such status.

Seward's Folly and Legacy

This transaction incurred a bit of controversy at the time, earning the nickname "Seward's Folly." Critics argued that the purchase of Alaska was a waste of money and resources, given the lack of visible immediate benefits. However, this appellation was arguably premature due to the immense strategic and economic benefits that likely outweighed the initial costs in the long term.

Conclusion

The United States' purchase of Alaska from Russia in 1867 is a fascinating chapter in American and Russian history. Despite initial skepticism, it has proven to be a wise and farsighted move, contributing significantly to the expansion and resilience of the American Empire.