Alaska: The Last Frontier

Alaska, the largest US state by area, is known for vast wilderness, dramatic landscapes, and unique position as America's "Last Frontier." Purchased from Russia in 1867 for $7.2 million (called "Seward's Folly"), Alaska became a state in 1959.

Denali (formerly Mount McKinley), North America's highest peak at 20,310 feet, anchors stunning national parks. Alaska features glaciers, fjords, tundra, and forests supporting bears, moose, caribou, and whales. The state has extreme daylight variations, with midnight sun in summer and long darkness in winter. The Alaska Pipeline transports oil from Prudhoe Bay.

Alaska's economy relies on oil, fishing, tourism, and military bases. Native Alaskan cultures including Inuit, Athabascan, Tlingit, and others maintain traditions. Juneau, the capital, is accessible only by boat or plane. The Iditarod dog sled race celebrates mushing heritage. Despite harsh conditions, Alaskans embrace outdoor lifestyle and frontier spirit.