Historical Events tagged with "purchase"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Politics & Government

U.S. Plans to Purchase Danish West Indies

October 24th, 1900 124 years ago

The U.S. government disclosed its intention to purchase the Danish West Indies for $7 million. This acquisition was strategically significant, as these islands were seen as crucial for military and economic expansion in the Caribbean. The announcement underscored the United States’ growing interest in the Caribbean region and its intentions to enhance its geopolitical presence. The negotiations were driven by concerns over European imperialism in the region, with the U.S. aiming to secure a foothold among various European colonial powers operating in the Caribbean.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

U.S. Acquires Alaska from Russia

October 18th, 1867 157 years ago

The United States took formal possession of Alaska from Russia, paying $7.2 million, a transaction often referred to as 'Seward's Folly.' This marked a significant expansion of U.S. territory, as the land was viewed with mixed feelings at first. The acquisition was celebrated for its potential resources and strategic advantages. The ceremony took place in Sitka, Alaska, witnessing the flag raising and the formal transition of governance.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

United States Purchases Alaska from Russia

March 30th, 1867 157 years ago

William H. Seward facilitated the acquisition of Alaska, secured from Russia for $7.2 million, a rate of about two cents per acre. The deal was finalized on March 30, 1867, signaling a strategic expansion of U.S. territory and influence in North America. This purchase effectively extended American reach into the Arctic region, with significant implications for future resource exploration.

Continue Reading
Transportation & Infrastructure

Gadsden Purchase Facilitates Railroad Expansion

December 30th, 1853 171 years ago

The Gadsden Purchase was a significant land acquisition in which the United States bought roughly 29,670 square miles from Mexico. Negotiated by James Gadsden, the U.S. Ambassador to Mexico, the purchase aimed to facilitate the construction of a southern transcontinental railroad and secure better access to the Pacific coast. This land includes parts of present-day Arizona and New Mexico, specifically aimed at addressing the challenges of connecting the southern states to the Pacific Ocean. The agreement was finalized in December 1853 and signed by Mexican President Antonio López de Santa Anna.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

US Senate Ratifies Louisiana Purchase Treaty

October 20th, 1803 221 years ago

In October 1803, the United States Senate ratified the treaty for the Louisiana Purchase, which allowed for the acquisition of a vast territory from France. This land acquisition, amounting to nearly 828,000 square miles, doubled the size of the United States at the time. The decision to ratify was primarily motivated by the desire to expand U.S. territory and secure control over key waterways. The vote was largely in favor, with a significant bipartisan agreement, reflecting the national interest in westward expansion and economic growth. The formal transfer of the territory later occurred in 1804.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

United States Acquires Louisiana Territory

April 30th, 1803 221 years ago

The United States finalized the purchase of the vast Louisiana Territory from France for $15 million. This monumental transaction effectively doubled the size of the nation and opened up tremendous opportunities for westward expansion. The negotiations were driven by President Thomas Jefferson's vision of a nation of farmers and his desire to secure land for future generations. The acquisition not only increased the land area of the United States but also strengthened its strategic position in North America.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Peter Minuit Purchases Manhattan Island

May 24th, 1626 398 years ago

Peter Minuit, the Dutch governor of New Netherland, purchased Manhattan Island from the Lenape people. The transaction was reportedly made for goods valued at around 60 guilders, a sum often mythologized as a mere $24. This purchase is significant for laying the foundation for New York City and illustrates early colonial interactions with Native Americans.

Continue Reading