The history of Alaska is long and interesting. It would take volumes to really do justice to this incredible state. It is home to perhaps the most spectacular scenery of any place in the United States. Visitors can see glaciers, climb mountains and enjoy some of the last unspoiled wilderness in the world.
Thousands of years ago, the very north west tip of the North American continent was still attached to Asia creating a land bridge. Early people migrated over this thin strip of land and began to settle in this harsh environment. Living off the land was essential and they hunted the seals and caught fish. By their resourcefulness these people were able to establish small communities along the coast.
It was not until 1867 that the United States government purchased the huge chunk of land from the Russians. At the time this was considered a mistake and the purchase price of $7,200,000 was widely criticized. Eventually the decision was justified with the discovery of oil and other rich mineral deposits.
The Alaskan territory was very quiet and completely undeveloped until the gold rush. In the 1890's the Yukon gold rush was the catalyst that prompted a huge influx of people. New towns grew up practically overnight and the population increased rapidly. This allowed for the establishment of Alaska as a territory in 1912. During World War two several of the Aleutian Islands were occupied by the Japanese. This brought new interest as a strategically important area that deserved more attention. The US army eventually managed to regain the islands and the native inhabitants who had been forcibly removed by the Japanese were able to go back to their homes.
A major event in the territories development was the construction of the Alaska-Canada Military Highway in 1942. This provided the first major road link to the rest of the United States. This huge step helped to pave the way to Statehood which was declared on January 3, 1959.
One of the biggest and most tragic events in the state history was the "Good Friday" earthquake. This huge quake, which measured in excess of 9 on the Richter scale, killed over one hundred people and destroyed many coastal properties. It also triggered a huge tsunami it created caused significant damage and is still remembered with fear and awe.
The discovery of significant oil deposits in the early seventies really changed the future of the Alaskan people. An overland pipeline was completed in 1977 that helped to speed production and really add to the economic prosperity of the state. The state government has been careful to monitor the new found wealth and ensure that every feels the benefits of the oil.
The history of Alaska continues to unfold. In recent years tourism has become a huge part of the state economy. In excess of one million visitors enjoy the beauty of the state each year. Many people are drawn to the breathtaking natural sights, which include dramatic mountain ranges, glaciers and a tremendous diversity of wildlife. It is one of the last places on earth to really enjoy nature at its best.
Thousands of years ago, the very north west tip of the North American continent was still attached to Asia creating a land bridge. Early people migrated over this thin strip of land and began to settle in this harsh environment. Living off the land was essential and they hunted the seals and caught fish. By their resourcefulness these people were able to establish small communities along the coast.
It was not until 1867 that the United States government purchased the huge chunk of land from the Russians. At the time this was considered a mistake and the purchase price of $7,200,000 was widely criticized. Eventually the decision was justified with the discovery of oil and other rich mineral deposits.
The Alaskan territory was very quiet and completely undeveloped until the gold rush. In the 1890's the Yukon gold rush was the catalyst that prompted a huge influx of people. New towns grew up practically overnight and the population increased rapidly. This allowed for the establishment of Alaska as a territory in 1912. During World War two several of the Aleutian Islands were occupied by the Japanese. This brought new interest as a strategically important area that deserved more attention. The US army eventually managed to regain the islands and the native inhabitants who had been forcibly removed by the Japanese were able to go back to their homes.
A major event in the territories development was the construction of the Alaska-Canada Military Highway in 1942. This provided the first major road link to the rest of the United States. This huge step helped to pave the way to Statehood which was declared on January 3, 1959.
One of the biggest and most tragic events in the state history was the "Good Friday" earthquake. This huge quake, which measured in excess of 9 on the Richter scale, killed over one hundred people and destroyed many coastal properties. It also triggered a huge tsunami it created caused significant damage and is still remembered with fear and awe.
The discovery of significant oil deposits in the early seventies really changed the future of the Alaskan people. An overland pipeline was completed in 1977 that helped to speed production and really add to the economic prosperity of the state. The state government has been careful to monitor the new found wealth and ensure that every feels the benefits of the oil.
The history of Alaska continues to unfold. In recent years tourism has become a huge part of the state economy. In excess of one million visitors enjoy the beauty of the state each year. Many people are drawn to the breathtaking natural sights, which include dramatic mountain ranges, glaciers and a tremendous diversity of wildlife. It is one of the last places on earth to really enjoy nature at its best.
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