Seward’s Day in Alaska in USA

When did the Seward’s Day in Alaska in USA start?

About Seward’s Day in Alaska in USA Holiday

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Seward’s Day is a state holiday in Alaska, USA, celebrated annually on the last Monday in March. The day is held in honor of William H. Seward, who served as Secretary of State during U.S. President Abraham Lincolns' administration and is best known for his successful negotiation of the treaty that established the state of Alaska in 1867.

The day marks the anniversary of his signature of the treaty, which officially declared that centuries of Russian influence in the region was coming to an end, and paved the way for Alaska’s eventual statehood. The treaty, which was made in Seward’s home office, cost Alaska only $7.2 million – or just over two cents per acre.

Alaskans take Seward’s Day as an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the colorful history and heritage of their beloved state. The holiday also serves to honor the memory of those who have contributed to the growth and development of the state, including both native Alaskans and settlers. Festivities typically include specially themed events in Seward’s honor, ranging from parades to marathons to outdoor concerts. With Seward’s Day just around the corner, it’s time to start planning the best ways to join in the fun and honor the legacy of Alaska’s one and only “founding father.”

Seward’s Day: An Alaskan State Holiday

Seward’s Day is an official Alaska state holiday observed annually on the last Monday of March. The holiday commemorates the signing of the Alaska Purchase Treaty on March 30, 1867. The treaty was negotiated by United States Secretary of State William H. Seward and enacted on behalf of President Andrew Johnson. The holiday is observed in various ways in Alaska, with some parts of the state coming together on Seward’s Day to celebrate its significance.

History and Origin

The Alaska Purchase Treaty, also known as the Treaty of Cession, was signed by the Russian Empire and the United States on March 30, 1867, in Washington D.C. The Russian Empire wanted to shed its Alaska territory and sought to sell it to the United States of America. The United States of America, in turn, was looking for new territories to expand their nation. The treaty was negotiated by United States Secretary of State William H. Seward and enacted by President Andrew Johnson. After months of negotiation, the U.S. purchased Alaska from the Russian Empire for $7.2 million. The purchase was satirized as “Seward’s Folly” as it was considered an unprofitable investment.

Significance and Meaning

Seward’s Day is observed to recognize William H. Seward, the man who made the Alaska Purchase Treaty a reality. As a result of his negotiations, the United States extended its borders and doubled its size. The treaty would become one of the most momentous foreign policy successes of the 19th century and Seward’s most notable achievement.

However, Seward’s Day is also seen as a day to celebrate the diverse cultural heritage of Alaska. The U.S. purchase of Alaska brought people from different cultures and races together. Alaskan natives, Russian settlers, and Americans have all come together to help build the great state of Alaska. Today, Seward’s Day is seen as a celebration of Alaskan pride.

Traditions and Celebrations

Seward’s Day is celebrated in many different ways, depending on the region. In some areas, citizens gather together to.[1] reenact the events of the Alaska Purchase Treaty, while others hold parades and other festivities. In Anchorage, Seward’s Day celebrations center on Mount Marathon. People from around the state gather to watch the annual Mount Marathon Race which follows a route up and down the mountain.

There are also other activities for families and friends to enjoy. Many people participate in outdoor activities such as fishing or skiing. Schools and community centers put on concerts or plays to celebrate the holiday. People also come together to share stories and traditions of Seward’s Day.

Geographical Spread

Seward’s Day is observed at the state level in Alaska only. It’s not recognized nationwide, although the significance of the treaty still has an impact on America’s history.

Modern Day Observations

Today, Seward’s Day is observed statewide in Alaska. The holiday brings people together to celebrate its history and the diverse cultures present in the state. There are parades, outdoor activities, and festivals to celebrate the holiday. The annual Mount Marathon Race draws in people from all over Alaska.

In 2020, the Seward’s celebration and festivities had to be held virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and most events moved online. Seward’s Day was celebrated with video, livestreams, and recorded messages.

Interesting Facts or Trivia

Some interesting facts and trivia to note for Seward’s Day are:

• The treaty was negotiated by United States Secretary of State William H. Seward.
• The Alaska Purchase Treaty was signed on March 30, 1867.
• The treaty was seen as “Seward’s Folly” as it was thought to be an unprofitable investment.
• The treaty doubled the size of the U.S. and allowed for the development of Alaska.
• Seward’s Day is celebrated with parades, outdoor activities, festivals, and the annual Mount Marathon Race.
• Seward’s Day festivities moved online in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Conclusion

Seward’s Day is an important and meaningful holiday in Alaska that is celebrated annually on the last Monday of March. It commemorates the signing of the Alaska Purchase Treaty in 1867. Seward’s Day celebrates the diverse cultures in Alaska and recognizes the accomplishments of William H. Seward. The holiday is marked with parades, outdoor activities, and festivals. In 2020, Seward’s Day celebrations moved online due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Seward’s Day is a great way to celebrate the history of Alaska and recognize the contributions and impact the Alaska Purchase Treaty had on the state.

[1] Live reenactment: https://www.seward.com/seward-treaty-reenactment/

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