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Sunday, January 6, 2013

Taking A Look At Alaskan History

By Katelyn Buckner


Many people dream of visiting the beautiful wilderness in Alaskan territory. You may be on those people, dreaming about the sun setting over snow topped mountains and seeing arctic foxes hopping in the snow after their prey. Learn more about Alaskan history and how this state became what it is today.

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.

The rumors of gold started a rush of pioneers and settlers to the arctic wilderness of Alaska. The idea of striking it rich by finding gold or hitting oil became the reason the territory became so populated in these the late 1800s. The price and purchase of the state no longer seemed as unworthy as people had first thought. The more pioneers that arrived, the more towns began to be born as well.

In 1899, after the discovery of gold, the town of Nome was created. Nome became famous due to the outbreak of diphtheria in 1925. The diphtheria outbreak was the reason the Iditarod trail was used by sled dogs for carrying much needed medicine to the people in Nome. The Iditarod race is still today the longest running race in the world. Millions of people have come to witness the start of this one thousand mile trek of mushers and their dog teams.

Alaska began to grow even more when it began attracting tourists. Soldiers came home from the areas remaking about its gorgeous and untouched beauty. These days, millions of people visit the state every year simply to enjoy the scenery. Your visit may include riverboat rides or maybe even dog sled presentations.]

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.

Visiting some of the museums in the town of Anchorage can allow you an inside look at the historical significance of the state. You can learn a great deal of history about the gold rush and the steps that were taken towards the state being what it is today. Find out more about the aurora borealis as well. This natural light show is a huge tourist attraction every year in the state.

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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