Alaska

Alaska is the largest United States state by area, located in the northwest corner of North America. It is bordered by Canada to the east, the Arctic Ocean to the north, the Pacific Ocean and the Gulf of Alaska to the south, and the Bering Sea and Bering Strait to the west. The Aleutian Islands extend into the Pacific, and the state spans two time zones. The capital is Juneau, and the largest city is Anchorage, with Fairbanks as a major regional center.

Alaska has a rich Indigenous heritage, with peoples such as the Inupiat, Yupik, Aleut, and Athabascans governing various regions for thousands of years. It was explored by Russians in the 18th century and became part of the United States in the 1867 Alaska Purchase. Alaska achieved statehood on January 3, 1959.

Geographically diverse, Alaska includes tundra and boreal forests, glacier-carved mountains, and extensive coastlines. Denali, home to North America’s highest peak, is a prominent feature. The climate ranges from temperate along the southeastern coast to subarctic and polar in the interior and north, with long winters and short summers. Wildlife includes bears, moose, caribou, eagles, whales, and numerous seabirds.

Its economy is built on natural resources and tourism. Petroleum from the North Slope and the Trans-Alaska Pipeline contribute a large share of state revenue, supplemented by commercial fishing, seafood processing, and tourism. The military also maintains facilities in several communities. Transportation relies heavily on air travel; a limited road system connects major hubs, and the Alaska Railroad and the Alaska Marine Highway provide rail and ferry service.

Governance follows a state constitutional system with a bicameral legislature (House of Representatives and Senate) and a governor. The Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act of 1971 and subsequent programs recognize Indigenous land rights and create Alaska Native corporations. Substantial subsistence activities persist in rural areas. Environmental issues include climate change, habitat protection, and balancing development with Indigenous and subsistence needs.