Why Did Russia Colonize Alaska?

Alaska, the largest state in the United States, boasts breathtaking landscapes and a rich history. But did you know that Alaska wasn’t always a part of the US? For over a century, it was under Russian control. This begs the question: why did Russia, a vast country in Eurasia, choose to colonize a distant land across the Bering Strait?

The story of Russian colonization of Alaska begins in the 17th century, with the exploration of the Siberian coast. Russian fur traders, driven by the demand for valuable furs like sable and sea otter, ventured eastward, pushing the boundaries of their empire. In 1648, Semyon Dezhnev, a Russian explorer, sailed through the Bering Strait, separating Asia from North America, marking the first documented passage by a European. However, his discovery remained largely unknown for decades.

In the early 18th century, Vitus Bering, a Danish explorer in the service of the Russian Tsar, was tasked with finding the connection between Siberia and North America. In 1741, Bering’s expedition landed on the Alaskan coast, claiming the territory for Russia. This marked the official beginning of Russian colonization of Alaska.

Motivations Behind Russia’s Interest in Alaska:

1. Fur Trade: The primary motivation for Russian colonization was the lucrative fur trade. Alaska was abundant in sea otter, seal, and other fur-bearing animals, highly sought after in European markets. Russian fur traders established settlements along the Alaskan coast, exploiting the natural resources for profit.
2. Expansion and Power: The colonization of Alaska was also driven by Russia’s imperial ambitions. By claiming new territories, Russia sought to expand its influence and power on the world stage. Alaska, as a strategic outpost in North America, provided Russia with a foothold in the region.
3. Exploration and Discovery: The exploration of the Alaskan coast was a significant scientific endeavor. Russian explorers charted new territories, mapped coastlines, and documented the flora and fauna of the region. This contributed to the advancement of geographical knowledge and scientific understanding.
4. Resource Acquisition: Alaska was not just about furs. It was also a source of other resources, including timber, fish, and minerals. Russia saw the potential for exploiting these resources, further fueling their interest in the territory.

The Decline of Russian Alaska:

Despite the initial success, Russian control over Alaska began to decline in the 19th century. The fur trade declined, and the cost of maintaining a distant colony became increasingly burdensome. Moreover, Alaska’s remote location and harsh climate made it challenging to manage effectively.

The Sale of Alaska to the United States:

In 1867, Russia sold Alaska to the United States for $7.2 million. The sale was a significant event that reshaped the geopolitical landscape of North America. The US saw Alaska as a valuable strategic acquisition, expanding its territory and securing control over the Arctic region.

The Legacy of Russian Colonization:

Russian colonization of Alaska left a lasting impact on the region. Russian language, culture, and traditions are still evident in Alaskan communities today. Moreover, the legacy of Russian exploration and resource exploitation continues to shape Alaska’s economy and environment. Understanding the reasons behind Russia’s colonization of Alaska provides valuable insights into the complex history of this unique and diverse state.