Was Russia’s Sale of Alaska in 1867 a Massive Mistake?

The sale of Alaska by Russia to the United States in 1867 has often been scrutinized, and opinions are divided on whether it was a wise or a colossal blunder. At the time, the deal, known as the Alaska Purchase, seemed a logical and practical solution, but the future has revealed a more complex picture. Let's delve into the reasons behind the decision and its long-term impact.

Was Selling Alaska a Mistake?

The purchase of Alaska by the United States for $7.2 million seemed like a remarkable deal at the time. However, the expression, “We have bought the most expensive refrigerator in the world,” was used by an American politician to describe the situation. The deal was made in 1867, and at that moment, hindsight was not yet 20/20.

Back in the 19th century, Russia’s financial situation was far from ideal. The Crimean War had left the empire financially weak. Maintaining Alaska was expensive, and the logistical challenges were significant. This made the decision to sell Alaska a pragmatic move, especially considering the alternatives.

Why Was Russia Concerned?

Russia faced the constant threat of losing Alaska to the British, who were expanding their influence in Canada. Tsar Alexander II and his diplomats were wary of the potential for conflict with Britain and saw the purchase as a means to avoid direct confrontation. The United States, on the other hand, was expanding westward and saw Alaska as less of a strategic concern at the time.

The deal was struck in 1867, and the logistics of the transaction were anything but straightforward. The gold payment was shipped from Russia to the United States aboard the USS Benicia, a US Navy ship. The journey across the Atlantic was plagued by storms and treacherous seas. At one point, there were fears that the gold might have sunk to the bottom of the ocean, making the transaction a high-stakes ordeal.

The Day of Possession

When the Americans took formal possession of Alaska on October 18, 1867, in Sitka, the Russian flag was lowered and got stuck halfway down the flagpole. Russian soldiers had to climb up to free it, only for the flag to drop into a puddle. This quirky event symbolizes the awkward transition of power and perhaps even serves as a symbol of the challenges that followed.

Long-Term Impact

For years, many critics said that selling Alaska to the United States was a colossal mistake. However, the long-term benefits of the purchase have been undeniable. Alaska has become a vital asset for the United States, home to significant natural resources, a strategic military location, and an essential part of the country’s economic and geopolitical landscape.

The discovery of gold in the late 19th century, and later significant oil reserves, have made Alaska more valuable than ever imagined. The purchase has been hailed as one of the best foreign policy decisions in US history, with Alaska contributing significantly to the nation's economic and military strength.

Conclusion

Was the sale of Alaska a mistake? The answer is not straightforward. At the time, it seemed a logical step to ensure Russia’s security and financial stability. Hindsight has provided a clearer picture of the long-term benefits, but the sale certainly had its critics. The sale of Alaska remains a fascinating chapter in both US and Russian history, illustrating the complexities of international relations and the unpredictable nature of geopolitical events.