What did people think of William Sewards decision to buy Alaska at the time?

William Seward's decision to purchase Alaska from Russia in 1867 was met with mixed reactions at the time. Many Americans were opposed to the purchase, arguing that it was a waste of money and that the land was worthless. Others, however, supported the purchase, believing that it would be beneficial to the United States in terms of natural resources and strategic location.

Some of the arguments against the purchase included:

- The land was too remote and difficult to access to be of any real value.

- The climate was too cold and harsh to be suitable for settlement.

- The purchase was a waste of money that could be better spent elsewhere.

- The United States had no need for such a large and distant territory.

Some of the arguments in support of the purchase included:

- The land was rich in natural resources, such as timber, minerals, and furs.

- The purchase would give the United States a strategic advantage in the Pacific region.

- The land could be used for settlement and expansion.

- The purchase was a wise investment for the future of the United States.

In the end, Seward's decision to purchase Alaska was approved by Congress, but it remained controversial for many years to come. However, the purchase has since been widely regarded as a success for the United States, as the land has proven to be rich in natural resources and has played an important role in American history.