Alaska – Russia's Lost Treasure! Did Russia Regret Selling Alaska to the United States?

Alaska – Russia's Lost Treasure! Did Russia Regret Selling Alaska to the United States?

Russia’s decision to sell Alaska to the United States in 1867 was largely driven by financial struggles after their defeat in the Crimean War. At the time, Russia’s interests in Alaska were waning, and they didn’t have the resources to maintain settlements or a military presence in the region. In fact, the permanent Russian settlers in Alaska never numbered more than 400.

The purchase price of $7.2 million, which is approximately $125 million today, was considered a significant amount, but Russia was eager to offload the territory to prevent it from falling into British hands. The treaty was finalized on March 30, 1867, and Alaska was formally transferred to the United States on October 18, 1867.

While there isn’t explicit information on whether Russia regretted selling Alaska, it’s worth noting that the purchase was initially met with skepticism in the United States, with some calling it “Seward’s Folly”. However, the discovery of gold in the Yukon in 1896 and Alaska’s strategic importance during World War II proved the territory’s value.

It’s likely that Russia’s perspective on the sale changed over time, especially as Alaska’s natural resources and strategic location became more apparent. Nevertheless, the sale marked the end of Russia’s expansionist efforts in North America and paved the way for the United States to become a major player in the Asia-Pacific region.