Joey Saves The Day!: Facts about Alaska

Learn facts about Alaska for kids.

Last week, we posted about Alabama. This week, we are posting facts about Alaska. You will learn about Alaska's state flag, bird, and other state facts.

Did you know that Alaska holds the distinction of being the 49th state to join the United States? On January 3, 1959, Alaska officially became a state, marking a significant moment in American history. Geographically, Alaska is situated in the Northwest region of North America, sharing a border with Canada to the east.

This vast and stunning land was once under Russian control until the United States purchased it in 1867 for approximately $7.2 million, which is about $125 million in today’s dollars when adjusted for inflation. This acquisition is often referred to as "Seward's Folly," named after Secretary of State William H. Seward, who was a key proponent of the purchase.

Alaska is not only one of the last states to join the union, but it is also the largest state in the U.S., covering an area of about 663,300 square miles. Despite its enormous size, the population of Alaska is relatively sparse, with approximately 731,545 residents. This means that the state has one of the lowest population densities in the country, making it an incredible place to explore vast wilderness areas, stunning landscapes, and remote communities. The unique combination of its expansive geography and low population creates a truly distinctive environment that is unlike any other state.

Facts about Alaska:

1. Alaska, the largest state in the United States, is renowned for its breathtaking natural phenomena, including the mesmerizing Northern Lights, also known as the aurora borealis. This stunning light display captivates visitors with vibrant colors dancing across the night sky. The state is also home to magnificent glaciers that carve through its landscapes, offering a glimpse into the Earth's geological history and providing vital insights into climate change.

Adding to its allure, Alaska boasts a rich gold mining heritage that played a significant role in the state’s history and economic development. During the late 19th century, the Klondike Gold Rush drew a wave of prospectors and dreamers seeking fortune in the rugged terrain.

Often referred to as "The Last Frontier," Alaska embodies the spirit of adventure and exploration, attracting those eager to discover its wild, untamed beauty. The state motto, "North to the Future," reflects the optimism and potential that residents see in their land, emphasizing Alaska’s role as a place of opportunity and growth.

For postal purposes, Alaska is abbreviated as AK, a simple yet fitting representation of this vast and diverse region.

2. Juneau, the capital city of Alaska, has held this status since 1906. Nestled in the southeastern part of the state, it boasts a unique coastal landscape and is accessible only by boat or plane. As of the latest estimates, the city is home to approximately 32,227 residents. This vibrant community is known for its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and as a hub for government, culture, and tourism in Alaska. With its picturesque views of the surrounding mountains and waterways, Juneau offers a variety of outdoor activities and serves as a gateway to the breathtaking Alaskan wilderness.

3. The state bird of Alaska is the Willow Ptarmigan, a fascinating species known for its remarkable ability to blend in with its environment. This bird’s exceptional camouflage skills are particularly evident in winter, when its plumage transforms to a striking all-white coat, allowing it to merge seamlessly with the snow-covered landscape. As the seasons shift and warmer temperatures arrive, the Willow Ptarmigan undergoes a dramatic change, shedding its white feathers for a vibrant mix of reds, browns, and subtle earth tones. This seasonal transition not only enhances the bird's survival against predators but also highlights its adaptability to the diverse Alaskan climate. Whether cloaked in winter's snow or summer’s earthy hues, the Willow Ptarmigan remains an iconic symbol of Alaska's unique wildlife.

4. The official state flower of Alaska is the forget-me-not, a delicate and charming flower that captivates with its beauty. This flower blooms in a variety of colors, including lovely shades of blue, soft pink, vibrant purple, pristine white, and even sunny yellow. The forget-me-not is particularly cherished for its small, star-shaped blossoms and lush green leaves, which create a striking contrast. Known for its resilience, this flower thrives in Alaska's colder climates, symbolizing remembrance and enduring love. Its enchanting appearance makes it a beloved choice for gardens and floral arrangements, reminding all who see it of the beauty of nature in the Last Frontier.

5. The Alaska state flag was officially raised for the first time on July 9, 1927. This distinctive flag is adorned with seven gold stars that are arranged in the shape of the Big Dipper constellation, which is prominent in the northern sky. Additionally, there is a larger gold star positioned above the Big Dipper, symbolizing the North Star, a guiding light that reflects Alaska's status as the northernmost state in the United States. The deep blue background of the flag is not only representative of the sky above Alaska but also reflects the beautiful coloring of the forget-me-not flower, the state flower. This design captures both the natural beauty and the geographical significance of Alaska, celebrating its unique identity within the Union.

6. Alaska has a thriving agricultural sector that produces a diverse array of crops, including hay, which serves as an essential feed for livestock. In addition to hay, the state is renowned for its dairy farming, which contributes significantly to the local economy through products such as milk, cheese, and yogurt. Among the various vegetables grown, Alaska sees a significant yield of beans, beets, broccoli, potatoes, and cauliflower. These vegetables are particularly well-suited to the region's unique climate and soils.

Moreover, Alaska boasts numerous nurseries and greenhouses throughout the state, where a diverse range of plants is cultivated. These facilities help extend the growing season and provide locals with access to fresh flowers, shrubs, and vegetables, enhancing both the beauty and sustainability of the Alaskan landscape.

7. Alaska boasts a remarkable array of around 100,000 glaciers, which collectively span roughly 5 percent of the state's total land area. These glaciers, which are essentially enormous, slow-moving sheets of ice, play a critical role in the state's breathtaking landscapes and ecosystems. They are formed over centuries as layers of snow compact and compress under their own weight, creating the vast ice masses that shape the terrain. The glaciers not only contribute to the stunning natural beauty of Alaska but also serve as vital indicators of climate change, as their sizes and health are closely monitored to understand shifting environmental conditions. Here is a list of some of the glaciers in Alaska in alphabetical order:

Aialik Glacier
Dawes Glacier
Denver Glacier
Exit Glacier
Holgate Glacier
Hubbard Glacier
Johns Hopkins Glacier
Mendenhall Glacier
Ruth Glacier

Prepare to be amazed by these incredible glaciers! With a parent or caretaker's go-ahead, dive into a Google search to discover the fascinating names behind them. Uncover their stories and stunning beauty – you won't want to miss it!

8. Alaska is home to three distinct species of bears: the black bear, the brown bear, and the polar bear. The black bear, renowned for its adaptability, can be found in a wide range of habitats, from dense forests to coastal regions. These bears generally have a sleek, short coat that can range in color from jet black to brown or even cinnamon.

The brown bear, often referred to as the grizzly bear when it is inland, is one of the largest bear species in the world. This bear is typically seen in coastal areas where it feeds on salmon during the fish migration season, showcasing its impressive strength and fishing skills. The brown bears in Alaska's Kodiak Archipelago are particularly notable, as they are among the largest in the world.

Lastly, the polar bear, uniquely adapted to life in the Arctic, is primarily found along the state’s northern coastlines. With their thick white fur and a layer of blubber, polar bears are well-equipped to survive in the freezing temperatures and icy waters. They mostly rely on seals for food, making them the top predators in their icy habitat. Each of these bear species plays a vital role in Alaska's diverse ecosystem.

9. Alaska is the coldest state in the United States, with weather and temperatures varying significantly across its regions. January is typically the coldest month, while July is the warmest. The lowest temperature ever recorded in Alaska was minus 80 degrees Fahrenheit at Prospect Creek on January 23, 1971. In contrast, the highest temperature recorded in the state reached 100 degrees Fahrenheit in Fort Yukon on June 27, 1915.

Get your free printable Alaska worksheet here:

Alaska worksheet