Question

Why was Seward’s purchase of Alaska viewed as a “folly” by many Americans? How did the

speech of Mr. Washburn show opposition to the purchase of Alaska?

Answer 1

Reactions to the purchase in the United States were mostly positive, as many believed possession of Alaska would serve as a base to expand American trade in Asia. Some opponents labeled the purchase as "Seward's Folly", or "Seward's Icebox", as they contended that the United States had acquired useless land.

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