Alaska is a state located in the United States of America. It is known for its natural beauty, wildlife, and rugged terrain. One interesting fact about Alaska is that it is located next to Russia, one of the world's largest countries. This proximity has raised questions about the relationship between Alaska and Russia.
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Table of Contents
Alaska is a state located in the United States of America. It is known for its natural beauty, wildlife, and rugged terrain. One interesting fact about Alaska is that it is located next to Russia, one of the world's largest countries. This proximity has raised questions about the relationship between Alaska and Russia.
How Close is Alaska to Russia?
Alaska is separated from Russia by the Bering Strait, which is about 55 miles wide at its narrowest point. This means that on a clear day, it is possible to see Russia from certain parts of Alaska. However, the distance between the two countries is significant enough that it would take a plane or boat ride to travel between them.
Why is Alaska So Close to Russia?
The reason for Alaska's proximity to Russia is due to its history. Alaska was purchased from Russia in 1867 by the United States for $7.2 million. At the time, Alaska was seen as a valuable territory due to its natural resources, such as gold, timber, and fish. The purchase was controversial at the time, but it ultimately led to Alaska becoming a state in 1959.
What is the Relationship Between Alaska and Russia?
Despite their proximity, Alaska and Russia do not have a significant relationship. The two countries do share a border, but it is largely unguarded and there is little cross-border traffic. However, there have been some instances of cooperation between the two countries, such as joint oil and gas exploration in the Bering Sea.
What Impact Does the Alaska-Russia Relationship Have?
The relationship between Alaska and Russia is largely symbolic at this point. However, it does have some impact on politics and foreign relations. For example, Alaska's proximity to Russia has led to concerns about national security, particularly in the wake of Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014. Additionally, there are ongoing debates about the use of the Arctic, which is a region that both Alaska and Russia have claims to.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Alaska's location next to Russia is an interesting fact that has raised questions and debates about the relationship between the two countries. While there is little interaction between Alaska and Russia, their proximity does have some impact on politics and foreign relations. As Alaska continues to develop and grow, it will be interesting to see how this relationship evolves.
References:
- https://www.alaska.org/advice/alaska-russia-connection
- https://www.history.com/topics/us-states/alaska
- https://www.npr.org/2014/03/22/292058607/alaska-residents-react-to-russia-s-annexation-of-crimea
