In 1867 the United States purchased Alaska from Russia for just over $7,000,000 - one of the greatest land deals ever recorded.

The Gold Rush of the late 19th century put the state on the map, then followed by the Prudhoe Bay oil and gas reservoir discovery in 1968, Alaska quickly began its incredible economic contribution (in the billions) to the U.S. economy.

Larger than Texas, California and Montana combined, it's so gigantic and rugged that the private airplane has (in many areas) replaced the family car.

In 1926, when Alaska was still a territory, this striking flag was designed by an Indian student. It displays the Big Dipper and the North Star, The gold color of the stars represents the state's enormous mineral resources.