Alaska payment conspiracy

The Alaska Payment Conspiracy is a conspiracy theory that suggests the United States government has been secretly paying the Russian Federation for the Alaska Purchase since the transaction was completed in 1867. This theory posits that the official payment of $7.2 million was not the full amount agreed upon and that subsequent payments have been made covertly.

Background

The Alaska Purchase was a significant event in American history, where the United States acquired approximately 586,412 square miles of territory from the Russian Empire. The transaction was negotiated by William H. Seward, the then-Secretary of State, and was finalized on March 30, 1867. The purchase was initially met with skepticism and was referred to as "Seward's Folly" by critics who doubted the value of the land.

Origins of the Conspiracy

The Alaska Payment Conspiracy theory emerged in the mid-20th century, fueled by Cold War tensions and a general atmosphere of distrust between the United States and the Soviet Union. Proponents of the theory claim that secret documents exist, detailing ongoing payments to Russia as part of a hidden agreement.

Claims and Beliefs

Supporters of the conspiracy theory argue that:

• The original payment of $7.2 million was insufficient for the vast resources and strategic value of Alaska.
• Secret payments have been made to Russia to maintain the agreement and prevent any claims of ownership.
• The U.S. government has concealed these payments to avoid public scrutiny and potential political fallout.

Debunking the Theory

Historians and experts have thoroughly debunked the Alaska Payment Conspiracy. Key points include:

• The original transaction was completed with a single payment, as documented in historical records.
• No credible evidence supports the existence of secret payments or agreements.
• The theory lacks substantiation from any reliable sources or documents.

Impact and Cultural References

Despite being debunked, the Alaska Payment Conspiracy has persisted in popular culture, often referenced in fiction and satire. It serves as an example of how conspiracy theories can arise from historical events and geopolitical tensions.

Also see

• Alaska Purchase
• Conspiracy theory
• Cold War
• William H. Seward