Alaska and Hawaii

Alaska and Hawaii

TP: Great Historians evaluate perspectives regarding United States imperialism beyond the Pacific Ocean through primary source analysis

Open Ended

What do you see in the image?

Open Ended

What is the message of this political cartoon?

Imperialism: A policy of extending a country's power and influence through diplomacy (negotiate, discuss/talk) or military force.

Purchase of Alaska

• In 1866 the Russian government offered to sell the territory of Alaska to the United States. Secretary of State William H. Seward, enthusiastic about the prospects of American expansion, negotiated the deal for the Americans.

• On March 30, 1867, the two parties agreed that the United States would pay Russia $7.2 million for the territory of Alaska.

Purchase of Alaska

• For less than two cents an acre, the United States acquired nearly 600,000 square miles.

• Opponents of the Alaska Purchase persisted in calling it “Seward’s Folly” or “Seward’s Icebox” until 1896, when the great Klondike Gold Strike convinced even the harshest critics that Alaska was a valuable addition to American territory. 

A speech by Representative N. P. Banks of Massachusetts, delivered to the House of Representatives June 30, 1868. 

It is necessary for the defense of this country, for the preservation of its institutions and its power. It cannot in the nature of things remain with perfect certainty, and possibly not for a long time, in the possession of Russia. It is likely to be conceded and transferred to some other Power, and it is indispensable (absolutely necessary) to us that in such an event it should in the nature of things be transferred to the United States. 

Multiple Choice

Why is this document arguing that the United States must purchase Alaska?

• America can make money off of Alaska

• To avoid Russia or another powerful country from taking it

• There are many natural resources there

• Purchasing Alaska will improve the U.S. military