| The U.S. Senate ratifies in 1867 the purchase of Alaska from Russia for $7.2 million, or about 2 cents an acre. In 1870, the population of Alaska was estimated at about 31,000 (recent estimate: 739,795). Alaska becomes vital to the economy of the Puget Sound region, beginning with the Klondike Gold Rush of 1897, when steamships take gold seekers from Seattle. In 1974, construction of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline ends an economic downturn in Seattle. Alaska continues to boost Western Washington’s economy via the fishing industry and Alaska-bound cruisesand tour boats that dock in Seattle. |
113
0
5 years ago
