Which territorial acquisition was referred to as "Seward's Folly"? 🔊
Seward's Folly refers to the purchase of Alaska from Russia in 1867, orchestrated by then-Secretary of State William H. Seward. Initially criticized as a costly mistake, the acquisition was emblematic of U.S. expansionism, with opponents dubbing it a "folly." However, the discovery of gold and oil in Alaska in later years transformed public perception, revealing its vast resources and strategic significance. It became a pivotal moment in U.S. history, reinforcing the narrative of Manifest Destiny and showcasing the foresight of Seward, as well as marking Alaska's eventual statehood in 1959.


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