How did the US gain Alaska as a territory?

The United States acquired Alaska from the Russian Empire in 1867 through the Alaska Purchase. The purchase was initiated by Secretary of State William H. Seward, who believed that acquiring Alaska would be beneficial to the United States for several reasons.

Strategic Importance: Alaska's location next to Canada and the Bering Strait made it strategically important for the United States. Seward saw Alaska as a means of securing American control over the North Pacific and protecting the Pacific Northwest from potential British or Russian expansion.

Economic Potential: Seward believed that Alaska had untapped economic potential in its natural resources, such as timber, minerals, and fisheries. He argued that the acquisition would provide the United States with valuable resources and expand economic opportunities for American citizens.

Reduction of Russian Influence: The United States was also concerned about the Russian presence in North America. Some Americans feared that Russia might eventually attempt to expand its territory southward, potentially threatening the United States. Acquiring Alaska would eliminate this concern and reduce Russian influence in the region.

The purchase was finalized on March 30, 1867, with the United States paying Russia $7.2 million for the territory. The acquisition of Alaska added approximately 586,412 square miles to the United States, making it the largest state by land area.