Known as the "Last Frontier", Alaska is the largest state in the United States, with over 580,000 square miles, while its population of 534,000 ranks it 48th of the 50 states. A barren and desolate land, covered by forest and arctic tundra, Alaska boasts the highest point in North America, Mount McKinley, standing 20,320 feet. With rich oil and natural gas deposits, followed by an abundant supply of forest and agricultural production, Alaska is a rich land, without state taxes were the average inhabitant earns over $17,700 and teachers earn on average $44,000. Originally discovered and inhabited by the Russians, Alaska was purchased by the United States in 1867 for $7.2 million and became known as "Seward's Folly". Gold was discovered in 1896 and the famous Alaskan gold rush was on. Alaskans are a hard bunch, having to endure long and extremely cold dark winters. But Alaska offers the future of promise and prosperity as the state motto suggests, "North to the Future". @
