Imperialism and World War I — Test

Question 11 • US History Studies Since 1877

Which best describes the controversy in the United States over the 1868 purchase of Alaska?

Answer

Supporters believed Alaska would provide valuable natural resources, while detractors felt it was too cold and too far away.

Supporters saw Alaska as a foothold into Europe, while detractors were concerned that attacking Europe would prove too costly.

Supporters felt that control of Alaska was key to expanding US trade, while detractors believed that Alaska was too far north to influence trade.

Supporters hoped to connect Alaska to the “Lower 48” by annexing Canada, a plan detractors considered imperialistic.

Explanation

Supporters of the 1868 Alaska purchase argued that its resources, including fish, timber, and minerals, could benefit the United States. Critics mocked the deal as a waste of money because Alaska seemed remote, sparsely populated, and bitterly cold. So choice B best captures the controversy.

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