Alaska's History and Significance

The video explores the modern history of Alaska, focusing on the last 2% of its history. It begins with Russian exploration in the 18th century, leading to colonization and the establishment of the Russian-American Company. Due to economic challenges and fear of British takeover, Russia sold Alaska to the US in 1867. The US governance period saw economic growth, especially after the gold rush. During WWII, Alaska's strategic importance increased, leading to its statehood in 1959 after oil was discovered.

What percentage of Alaska's history is shaped by indigenous tribes?

• 100%

• 98%

• 75%

• 50%

Who was the Russian explorer that survived the mission to find the American continent?

• Peter the Great

• Vitus Bering

• Aleksei Chirikov

• Ivan the Terrible

What sparked the Russian colonization of Alaska?

• Strategic military location

• Discovery of gold

• Rich fishing grounds

• High-quality sea otter pelts

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

• Fear of British takeover

• Lack of resources

• Discovery of oil

• Pressure from indigenous tribes

Which industry was NOT mentioned as being profitable in Alaska after the discovery of gold?

• Copper mining

• Timber

• Fishing

• Whaling

What was the main reason for Alaska's increased attention during World War II?

• Discovery of oil

• Strategic position between Japan and the US

• Pressure from indigenous tribes

• Rich natural resources

Which islands did the Japanese invade during World War II?

• Pribilof Islands

• Kodiak Islands

• Alexander Archipelago

• Aleutian Islands

What discovery after World War II changed Washington's opinion about Alaska?

• Gold

• Timber

• Oil

• Copper

In what year did Alaska become the 49th state of the United States?

• 1965

• 1959

• 1950

• 1955

Who was the US President when Alaska was granted statehood?

• Lyndon B. Johnson

• John F. Kennedy

• Dwight D. Eisenhower

• Harry S. Truman