Why Russia Sold Alaska to the U.S.

The Truth Behind Why Russia Sold Alaska to the United States Many people wonder:

Why did Russia sell Alaska to the United States in 1867? The truth is a mix of economics,

geography, and politics. By the mid-19th century, Russia was financially

struggling. The Crimean War had drained its economy, and Alaska—remote,

frozen, and incredibly difficult to defend—was becoming more of a burden than a benefit.

At that time, Russia didn’t yet know about Alaska’s massive gold and oil reserves.

Russia also feared that if war ever broke out with Britain, it would lose Alaska for nothing,

since British-controlled Canada was right next door. So selling the territory was seen as the