The Alaska Purchase (Story Time with Mr. Beat)

The video discusses the purchase of Alaska from Russia in 1867 for $7.2 million, a deal often seen as beneficial for the U.S. due to Alaska's economic contributions. Russia sold Alaska due to financial strain and fear of British expansion. The purchase, negotiated by William Seward, faced criticism as 'Seward's Folly' but later proved valuable with gold and oil discoveries. Economist David Barker challenged the deal's value, suggesting benefits could have been gained without ownership. The video concludes with a positive view of Alaska's integration into the U.S.

What was the initial perception of the Alaska purchase by the United States?

• An unnecessary expansion

• A beneficial economic deal

• A strategic military move

• A waste of money

Why did Russia decide to sell Alaska to the United States?

• They feared an invasion from China

• They discovered no valuable resources in Alaska

• They needed funds after the Crimean War

• They wanted to strengthen ties with the US

What was the price per acre for the Alaska territory in 1867?

• $2.00

• $0.50

• $0.02

• $1.00

What event led to increased American migration to Alaska?

• The end of World War II

• The discovery of gold

• The discovery of oil

• The construction of a railway

What was David Barker's controversial claim about the Alaska purchase?

• It was the best deal in US history

• The economic benefits could have been gained without ownership

• It was a strategic military mistake

• Alaska should have been returned to Russia