Tuesday, 8 January 2013

Taking A Look At Alaskan History

By Katelyn Buckner


The allure of the wilderness and snow in Alaska has been a temptation to many people around the world. Taking the time to learn more about the area and the wildlife there is important before you visit. Alaskan history is filled with events you should know before your visit in order to enhance the time you spend there. Find out how this state became what is today and why you should go there.

Before this state became a part of the United States, the territory belonged to Russia. The area was purchased by the US for the amount of $7,200,000.00, on August 1, 1867. Many people at that time felt the area was unworthy due to the snow and arctic conditions.

When the discovery of gold and oil were found in Alaskan territory, the rush started towards it. Many pioneers became interested and suddenly, the area was no longer considered unworthy or a waste of money on the part of the United States. Once the rumors of gold started leaking out, people began going to the Alaskan area in droves. When this movement began, other issues began to arise as well.

One famous town in Alaska is called Nome and has a great historical significance. The Iditarod trail was used to get medicines to Nome during an outbreak of diphtheria in 1925. The town of Nome was founded in 1899 as a center point of pioneers looking for gold and finding their fortunes. Because of the famous dog sled run due to the diphtheria outbreak, the Iditarod race is still today a great part of Alaska.

Gold seekers also used the Iditarod trail as a mean of reaching untouched areas of wilderness. In fact, most travel in the area was by dog sled until the introduction of planes and snowmobiles made travel faster and less invasive. These days, dog sledding is more an attraction and sport than a means of sole travel.

Tourism began when soldiers returning home from there talked about the vast, beautiful untouched wilderness. Tourism became popular as many travelers flocked to the area to view the wildlife and landscapes Alaska had to offer its visitors. Many people travel to the area and enjoy adventures like riverboat rides and tours of Indian villages. Many dog sledding presentations are also available to tourists that are not related to the Iditarod race.

The town of Anchorage is a great place to visit for learning more about the complete history of Alaska. Anchorage is home to great museums that are filled with details about many parts of the state. Learn more about the natural light show that draws thousand every years as well, the aurora borealis.

From the early years to today, Alaskan history has always been interesting and unique. Millions of people have made it a part of their travels and have found the allure of the state to everything they thought it might be and more. Learn more about the historical events that have you wondering about this arctic area by making your plans to visit it. Doing so will allow you an adventure into history you will never forget.




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