History of Alaska's Purchase

In 1867, Alaska was sold by Russia to the USA for $7.2 million. The sale was driven by Russia's financial struggles post-Crimean War and the threat of British conquest. Alaska, then known as Russian America, offered prestige but was costly to protect. Russia chose the USA over Britain due to imperial rivalries and Britain's lack of interest. The sale was finalized after negotiations, despite surveyors valuing Alaska higher. The video concludes with acknowledgments to patrons.

In what year was Alaska transferred from Russia to the United States?

• 1865

• 1867

• 1870

• 1875

What was the primary reason for Russia's decision to sell Alaska?

• Discovery of gold

• Defeat in the Crimean War

• Pressure from Britain

• Desire for expansion

What was Alaska known as during the Russian Empire?

• Russian Alaska

• Russian America

• Siberian Territory

• Northern Colony

Which Russian leader's brother initiated the discussion to sell Alaska?

• Grand Duke Alexander

• Grand Duke Michael

• Grand Duke Constantine

• Grand Duke Nicholas

What was one of the economic benefits of Alaska mentioned?

• Prestige of owning overseas territory

• Rich fishing grounds

• Large agricultural lands

• Abundant gold reserves

Why did Russia not sell Alaska to Britain?

• Britain was not interested

• Britain offered a lower price

• Britain had no access to the Pacific

• Britain was an ally

What event delayed the United States' purchase of Alaska?

• The Spanish-American War

• The American Civil War

• The American Revolution

• The War of 1812

What was the agreed sale price of Alaska?

• $10 million

• $5 million

• $7.2 million

• $12 million

What was the initial estimated value of Alaska according to Russian surveyors?

• $10 million

• $5 million

• $15 million

• $7.2 million

What was Russia's strategic reason for maintaining good relations with the United States?

• To expand into South America

• To counter British influence

• To access American markets

• To gain military support