What if Russia Refused to Sell Alaska in 1867?

Imagine a scenario where Russia, instead of selling Alaska to the United States in 1867, refused to cede its sovereignty. The implications would have been profound, reshaping the political and economic landscape of North America and beyond. This article explores how such an alternative history might play out.

The Context: Post-Crimean War Russia

After the Crimean War (1853-1856), Russia was a battered nation. Defeated by Britain and France, Russia's finances were in shambles, and the outcome left Moscow in fear of further encroachment from Western powers. Among these powers, the British Empire was particularly seen as a potential threat. Having just lost the Crimean War, and with its coffers drained, Russia's government was inclined to explore any opportunity to secure financial relief.

Canada's Ambitions and British Approval

As Russia's neighbor and a British dominion, Canada posed a significant threat to Russia's control over Alaska. At the time, Canada was still negotiating its independence, but it was keen on securing Alaskan territory through various means. Canada's foreign policy was deeply intertwined with the British Empire, with the UK having a considerable say in Canadian decisions. Furthermore, the British navy was prepared to seize control if Russia attempted to maintain sovereignty, as the Royal Navy had already established a presence in Vancouver. This naval supremacy made it nearly impossible for Russia to mount a successful defense.

Alaskan Society and Motivation

The Russian presence in Alaska was limited and disorganized. The majority of Russians in the region were stationed in Sitka, and they were neither well armed nor motivated to defend Russian sovereignty. Moreover, the small population and limited resources meant that any resistance would be insufficient. A small Canadian force, with British support, would have easily overcome any resistance on land, while the Royal Navy's control of the seas would have prevented any Russian attempts to regroup or resupply.

The British Empire's Control

Given the situation, it's highly likely that the British Empire, along with its Canadian dominion, would have taken over Alaska. The Union of Alaska with Canada would have solidified the British Empire's dominance over the region, and more importantly, it would have removed a key strategic area from Russia's reach. This move would have significantly increased Britain's sphere of influence, notably ensuring that its control extended to the Pacific without direct confrontation with Russia's Siberian territories.

Impact on Modern Geopolitics

The refusal by Russia to sell Alaska to the United States in 1867 would not have led to a peaceful outcome. Instead, it would have set the stage for a scenario where Alaska is a part of Canada today. This would have profound implications, including creating a competitive geopolitical landscape where Britain's influence is more pronounced, and the tensions between Russia and Britain are heightened. The absence of Alaska in Russian hands would have also left a gaping hole in the Russian Pacific defense perimeter, potentially altering the course of history in the 19th and 20th centuries.

Conclusion

The decision by Russia to sell Alaska to the United States in 1867 was a strategic move influenced by fiscal necessity and geopolitical concerns. It allowed Russia to maintain a presence in the Pacific without direct confrontation with the British Empire. Had Russia refused to sell, the consequences would have been dire, leading to a scenario where Britain and Canada controlled Alaska. This hypothetical outcome would have reshaped the geopolitical map of North America, creating a more complex dynamic between Russia and the British Empire.

FAQ

Q: Why did Russia sell Alaska to the United States in 1867?
A: Russia sold Alaska to the United States to address its financial crisis after the Crimean War and to prevent Britain and Canada from seizing the territory.

Q: What would have happened if Russia didn't sell Alaska to the U.S.?
A: If Russia didn't sell Alaska to the U.S., Britain and Canada would have likely seized the territory, leading to a British Empire control over Alaska and a more dominant presence in the Pacific.