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AKAlaska History
Alaska at a glance
Alaska was admitted to the Union on 1959, making it the 49th state. It joined the country 183 years after the Declaration of Independence. Its capital Juneau has been the seat of state government for most of the state's history.
Native peoples
For thousands of years before European contact, Indigenous peoples lived across what is now Alaska. Multiple distinct cultures developed in response to the region's geography — coastal peoples, plains peoples, river-valley peoples, mountain peoples — each with their own languages, governance, and trade networks. European colonization disrupted these civilizations dramatically, often through disease, displacement, and forced removal. Today, Alaska's Native heritage is preserved in place names, tribal nations within state borders, and ongoing cultural practices.
Path to statehood
The path from European exploration to statehood typically took decades. Alaska was admitted to the Union on 1959, after meeting the requirements set by Congress: sufficient population, a written constitution, and the consent of Congress. The process from initial settlement to statehood was the 173rd time the US expanded.
The modern era
Today Alaska has a population of under 1 million and is one of the largest states in the country. The capital is Juneau; the largest city is Anchorage. The economy benefits significantly from oil and natural gas production. Tourism is a major economic driver. The state has no state income tax — one of nine US states with this distinction. The political lean has shifted over time and now leans reliably Republican.
Key historical sites in Alaska
Alaska preserves its history through state parks, national monuments, historic districts, and museums. Battlefields, colonial towns, mission sites, Native American heritage areas, and Civil Rights landmarks (where applicable) anchor the state's heritage tourism. Visit the state's official tourism site for a current list.
Non-contiguous status
Alaska is one of only two non-contiguous US states — separated from the lower 48 by water. It shares no land border with any other US state.
Learn US history through daily puzzles
Statedoku uses statehood era, Confederate or Union role, and admission years as recurring constraints. After a month of daily play, you'll know exactly when and how each state joined the Union.
Play today's puzzle →Common questions about Alaska history
When did Alaska become a state?
Alaska became a state in 1959, making it the 49th state admitted to the Union.
Was Alaska part of the Confederacy?
No, Alaska was not part of the Confederacy.
Was Alaska part of the Louisiana Purchase?
No.
Did Spain or France colonize Alaska?
Alaska was primarily under British colonial influence.
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