History of Alaska's Economy

Before examining the modern economy, it is worth reviewing Alaska's economic history. The primary economic activities that have sustained Alaska's people and driven economic growth in the past are still essentially the same today. Understanding Alaska's economic past helps us better understand its future. In the following five pages, we briefly review the major economic events of Alaskan history and look at how they brought change and development to the state.

Five Major Periods of Alaska's Economic History

• Natural Resource Economy

• The Fur Trade

• The Gold Rush

• World War 2 and the Cold War

• Oil Development 

Next Page

To navigate through the textbook, click on the next page button or go to the navigation menu on the top left.