From a “worthless icebox” to one of America’s greatest strategic assets, Alaska’s story spans gold rushes, oil booms, and Cold War brinkmanship. This episode uncovers the political intrigue, economic surprises, and global stakes behind the 1867 purchase that changed U.S. history.

• How Russia’s retreat led to America’s Arctic expansion

• Gold, oil, and the transformation of Alaska’s economy

• Alaska’s enduring role in U.S.-Russia power dynamics