When Russia Sold Alaska

The video explores Alaska's history, starting as Russian America in the 18th century. It details Russian exploration led by Vitus Bering and subsequent colonization efforts. Due to financial strains, Russia sold Alaska to the US in 1867 for $7.2 million, a move met with mixed reactions. The purchase, known as Seward's Folly, expanded US territory but left unresolved issues with Native American land claims. The video concludes by pondering how US-Russia relations might differ if Russia still owned Alaska.

Who was the Russian leader that initiated the exploration of Alaska?

• Nicholas II

• Ivan the Terrible

• Peter the Great

• Catherine the Great

What was a significant reason for Russia's decision to sell Alaska?

• Desire to expand into Asia

• Defeat in the Crimean War

• Discovery of gold in Alaska

• Pressure from European allies

How much did the United States pay for the purchase of Alaska?

• $10 million

• $5 million

• $12 million

• $7.2 million

What was the term used by critics to describe the purchase of Alaska?

• Seward's Venture

• Seward's Gamble

• Seward's Folly

• Seward's Success

What was the reaction of many Native Americans to the transfer of Alaska?

• They moved to Canada

• They were indifferent

• They refused to recognize it

• They welcomed the change