Alaska Purchase Historical Insights

The video discusses the history of Alaska, once known as Seward's Folly, and its purchase by the US from Russia in 1867. Initially ridiculed, the purchase proved valuable after gold was discovered in 1898, revealing Alaska's rich natural resources. The video highlights the role of Secretary of State William H. Seward in the acquisition and the initial skepticism from Congress, which passed the purchase by a single vote. The acquisition increased the US size by 20% and has since contributed significantly to the nation.

Which U.S. state was once referred to as Seward's Folly?

• Hawaii

• Texas

• California

• Alaska

Before being sold to the United States, which country owned Alaska?

• Spain

• Russia

• France

• Canada

Who was the U.S. Secretary of State responsible for negotiating the purchase of Alaska?

• Daniel Webster

• Henry Clay

• John Quincy Adams

• William H. Seward

What was the approximate cost per acre when the United States purchased Alaska?

• 1 cent

• 2 cents

• 5 cents

• 10 cents

How did the U.S. Congress initially view the purchase of Alaska?

• A strategic military move

• A waste of money

• A cultural exchange

• An agricultural investment

What event in 1898 changed public perception of Alaska's value?

• Discovery of oil

• Discovery of gold

• Establishment of a military base

• Introduction of new wildlife

What nickname was given to Alaska after its purchase due to its perceived lack of value?

• Johnson's Desert

• Grant's Gamble

• Seward's Icebox

• Lincoln's Mistake

By what percentage did the acquisition of Alaska increase the size of the United States?

• 20%

• 25%

• 15%

• 10%

What was one of the derogatory names given to Alaska after its purchase?

• Seward's Paradise

• Johnson's Polar Bear Garden

• Grant's Frozen Land

• Lincoln's Ice Palace

What is the lasting impact of Alaska's acquisition on the United States?

• It was returned to Russia

• It contributed significantly to natural resources

• It remained largely uninhabited

• It became a major agricultural hub