Setting the Stage: Russia’s Strategic Calculus and America’s Expansionist Drive

During the mid-1800s, Russia confronted a challenging geopolitical dilemma. Its vast North American territory—Alaska—was remote, sparsely inhabited, and increasingly tough to defend against rival powers, especially British forces stationed in neighboring Canada. Maintaining this distant outpost strained Russian resources without offering immediate strategic benefits.

Recognizing these vulnerabilities, Russian leadership began exploring options to divest from Alaska. The United States emerged as a natural buyer due to its burgeoning expansionist ambitions under President Andrew Johnson and Secretary of State William H. Seward. Their vision for continental growth aligned with Russia’s desire to offload an expensive liability while fostering a potential ally against British…