Question

Which factor was most important to the United States’ purchase of Alaska?

national defense
political concerns
natural resources
growing population

Answer 1

The most important factor in the United States’ purchase of Alaska in 1867 was **natural resources**. The acquisition was driven by the potential for vast resources, including gold, oil, and fur, which were believed to be abundant in the region. Additionally, the strategic location of Alaska also played a role in national defense and political concerns, but the primary motivation behind the purchase was the expectation of resource wealth.