Which European power originally colonized Alaska and why?

The correct answer highlights Russia's significant interest in Alaska, primarily driven by the desire to exploit the region's rich natural resources, such as furs and timber. In the 18th century, Russian explorers and fur traders ventured across the Bering Strait, establishing a foothold in Alaska. The abundance of fur-bearing animals, particularly sea otters, made it a lucrative destination for the fur trade, essential for the Russian economy and their broader imperial ambitions.

The timber resources were also vital, as they were necessary for shipbuilding and construction in a time when expanding naval power was critical for Russia. Thus, this motivation was closely intertwined with the economic ambitions of the Russian Empire, as they sought to capitalize on Alaska's natural wealth.

This understanding underscores the historic context of Russian colonization in Alaska, which was marked by the establishment of trading posts and the fur trade that significantly influenced both the local Indigenous populations and the development of the region.