Seward's Folly, Alaska, William H. Seward

Why was the purchase of Alaska initially criticized, and how did it eventually prove to be a valuable acquisition for the United States? This lesson and activity examines the background and impact of the purchase and annexation of Alaska. Students will analyze primary and secondary source documents. They’ll then answer corresponding scaffolding questions. They will answer the final summary question to apply their knowledge.

Included in this resource:

Do Now - William H. Seward primary source political cartoon analysis with scaffolding questions
“Seward’s Folly” reading passage with scaffolding questions
William Seward on the Purchase of Alaska POV with scaffolding questions
Primary source quote analysis with scaffolding questions
Application/Closing/Higher-Order Thinking Assessment: Why did the discovery of natural resources, such as gold, significantly change the perception of Alaska’s value and its impact on the United States?
Answer key for teachers (suggested)
★ Please make an executive decision whether or not this lesson can be executed with your students based upon the preview file. Thank you!

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