U.S. History: Alaska Purchase and Influence

The video discusses the U.S. purchase of Alaska, driven by the desire to dominate the Pacific. It covers the historical context, including the Treaty of Kanagawa and the annexation of Hawaii. The political cartoon analysis highlights President Andrew Johnson's challenges and the purchase as a distraction. Initially seen as a folly, Alaska proved valuable with resources like gold and oil. The video concludes with a review of U.S. Pacific expansion efforts.

What was one of the initial steps the U.S. took to dominate the Pacific?

• Gaining control of the Philippines

• Purchasing Alaska

• Opening trade with Japan

• Annexing Hawaii

Which territory did the U.S. gain control of after the Spanish-American War?

• Philippines

• Alaska

• Midway Island

• Hawaii

Which event led to the U.S. gaining a sphere of influence in China?

• The purchase of Alaska

• The Spanish-American War

• The Boxer Rebellion

• The Treaty of Kanagawa

Who was the U.S. President during the purchase of Alaska?

• William Seward

• Andrew Johnson

• Thomas Nast

• Millard Fillmore

Which U.S. Secretary of State was instrumental in the purchase of Alaska?

• Millard Fillmore

• William Seward

• Andrew Johnson

• Thomas Nast

What was the initial public opinion of Alaska after its purchase?

• A valuable resource

• A strategic military base

• A barren wasteland

• A popular vacation spot

Which of the following resources was NOT found in Alaska after its purchase?

• Timber

• Diamonds

• Petroleum

• Gold

What was the cost of purchasing Alaska from Russia?

• $10 million

• $12.5 million

• $7.2 million

• $5 million

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

• They needed money

• They wanted to strengthen ties with the U.S.

• They discovered it was barren

• They were threatened by the U.S.

What was one of the strategic benefits of the U.S. purchasing Alaska?

• It expanded U.S. influence in the Pacific

• It was a popular tourist destination

• It was a hub for international diplomacy

• It provided a military base against Canada