Limited Knowledge but High Expectations

At the time of the Alaska Purchase in 1867, detailed knowledge about Alaska’s natural resources was limited. However, William H. Seward, the U.S. Secretary of State, had several reasons to believe in the potential wealth of the territory:

1. Reports from Russian Activities:

• Fur Trade: Russia had been engaged in the lucrative fur trade in Alaska since the late 18th century. The abundance of sea otters, seals, and other fur-bearing animals indicated rich wildlife resources.

• Exploration Accounts: Russian explorers and traders had documented their experiences, providing glimpses into Alaska’s natural environment.

2. Geographical Reasoning:

• Untapped Resources: Given Alaska’s vast size and diverse landscapes—including forests, mountains, and coastlines—Seward anticipated the presence of valuable resources such as timber, minerals, and fisheries.

• Similarity to Other Territories: Seward drew parallels between Alaska and other North American frontiers that had yielded significant resources upon exploration.

3. Strategic and Economic Speculation:

• Fishing Grounds: The rich fishing grounds of the North Pacific were of interest for expanding the American fishing industry.

• Mineral Potential: While not confirmed, there was speculation about the presence of gold and other minerals, which later proved accurate with subsequent gold rushes.

• Timber and Coal: The dense forests suggested a wealth of timber, and there were hints of coal deposits that could be valuable for energy.

Visionary Thinking

• Long-Term Investment: Seward viewed Alaska as a strategic long-term asset. Even without concrete evidence of specific resources, he believed that as the territory was explored and developed, its true value would become apparent.

• Expansion of Trade: He foresaw Alaska as a gateway to Asian markets, enhancing trade opportunities with countries like China and Japan.

Influence of Advisors and Explorers

• Expert Opinions: Seward consulted with explorers, traders, and scientists who supported the idea that Alaska held untapped resources.

• Interest from Other Nations: The fact that other powers, such as Britain, had shown interest in the region suggested potential value that the United States could capitalize on.

Conclusion

While Seward did not have definitive knowledge of all the natural resources in Alaska, he combined available information, logical reasoning, and a forward-thinking vision to justify the purchase. His belief in Alaska’s potential was driven by:

• Existing evidence of valuable fur resources and rich fisheries.

• Speculation about untapped mineral wealth and natural resources.

• Strategic importance for national security and future economic opportunities.

Seward’s foresight was later validated with the discovery of gold, oil, natural gas, and other valuable resources, confirming Alaska’s significant contribution to the United States.