Lost American Lands: Territories the U.S. Used to Own

5. Alaska (Before Statehood)

Purchased from Russia in 1867, Alaska spent decades as a U.S. territory before achieving statehood in 1959. Early on, skeptics dubbed it “Seward’s Folly,” but the territory soon revealed immense natural wealth—especially after the discovery of gold. Alaska’s journey from remote outpost to vital American region is a testament to changing perceptions and opportunities.