Secretary of State William Seward made the decision to purchase Alaska from Russia in 1867 because he saw the strategic and economic potential of the territory. He believed that Alaska's vast natural resources, including its abundance of fur-bearing animals, fish, timber, and minerals, could greatly benefit the United States. Additionally, Seward wanted to prevent any other foreign powers, such as Great Britain, from establishing a stronger presence in the region. The purchase of Alaska, also known as "Seward's Folly" at the time, has since proven to be a wise investment for the United States, as the territory has become an important source of oil, natural gas, and other valuable resources.
