How did the U.S. acquire Alaska, and what was its initial perception?

The acquisition of Alaska by the United States took place through a purchase from Russia in 1867, known as the Alaska Purchase. The U.S. Secretary of State, William H. Seward, was a key proponent of this deal, negotiating to buy the territory for $7.2 million. At the time of the acquisition, Alaska was largely seen as barren and desolate, with few immediate signs of the resources that would later make it valuable. This perception stemmed from the lack of knowledge about the rich natural resources, such as gold and oil, that would eventually be discovered there.

The initial skepticism surrounding Alaska's value contributed to its reputation as "Seward's Folly" or "Seward's Icebox," as many critics derided the purchase, believing that it was a futile endeavor to acquire what they viewed as an inhospitable land without any economic benefit. Over time, however, Alaska proved to be an asset, rich in resources and strategic importance, changing its perception dramatically in the subsequent years.