Question

Which statement explains the U.S. motivation for the acquisition of the Alaska territory?

The purchase would improve U.S. political relations with Canada.

The United States would benefit from increased natural resources.

The purchase would open new markets for American goods.

The United States sought to establish a military presence close to Asia.

Answer 1

The U.S. motivation for acquiring Alaska was focused on gaining access to the territory's abundant natural resources, including mineral wealth, leading to significant economic benefits exemplified by the Klondike Gold Rush.

Step-by-step explanation:

The primary motivation for the United States in the acquisition of the Alaska territory was the benefit of increased natural resources. The purchase of Alaska from Russia in 1867 was initially met with skepticism and termed as "Seward's Folly" by the press. However, Secretary of State William Seward's foresight proved strategic as the territory indeed possessed rich mineral resources, which included gold that later triggered the Klondike Gold Rush. The federal government's interest in Alaska was further influenced by a desire to expand American influence and control maritime routes, establishing a presence to compete with European powers in the surrounding waters. Moreover, Alaska provided resources like fish and furs, and eventually became recognized as a U.S. territory with the rich resources justifying the purchase.