The Alaska State Motto: North to the Future

History of the Alaska State Motto
Alaska, our 49th and largest state, has a rich history and a beauty unlike any other state in the Union. In 1867, the United States purchased Alaska from Russia for about 7 million dollars. In 1959, it was admitted as the 49th state and the first state that did not border any others.

In 1963, the 100-year anniversary of the purchase of Alaska from Russia was approaching and plans for a celebration included a contest for a centennial motto and emblem. This motto was to express the unique character of Alaska. Richard Peter, a Juneau newsman, won the $300 prize for his suggestion, "North to the Future." In 1967, the legislature formally adopted Peter's suggestion as the official state motto during the centennial celebration.

Meaning of the Alaska State Motto
Alaska's state motto reflects optimism and promise for a better future. It is one of the last true frontiers in the United States and today still holds promise for those wanting a unique life. In fact, "North to the Future" may be our hope in this economy today as Alaska is rich in energy resources such as oil.

In the past, gold brought miners north to Alaska in hopes of riches. After World War II, and occupation of some of the outer lying islands by the Japanese, military bases were constructed and drew even more citizens to Alaska. Fishing, oil, sightseeing, et cetera have brought many north to their futures.

Richard Peter, the architect of the motto, stated it best: "[The motto] is a reminder that beyond the horizon of urban clutter there is a Great Land beneath our flag that can provide a new tomorrow for this century's 'huddled masses yearning to be free'."

Other Interesting Facts about Alaska
The land of Alaska is also one of the most beautiful for nature. From majestic mountains like Mount McKinley to the Aurora Borealis or Northern lights, there is pristine nature to view and enjoy.

Since Alaska's primary export is petroleum and other energy sources, there is a higher cost of living. Agriculture makes up a fraction of the trade in Alaska and most of it stays "in-house". Thanks to military bases and larger chain stores, such as Wal-Mart, the cost of foodstuffs and other living costs have gone down in the last few years. But rural Alaskans still suffer under high costs due to lack of transportation or difficulty traveling to remote areas.

The Permanent Fund is a unique source of revenue in Alaska. The Fund was put into place to manage excess funds from the state's petroleum industry and is run by the legislature. Every year, eligible residents receive a stipend based on the year's profits.

Conclusion
A running thread in the United States is that all the states, though vastly different, are united under one flag. Where else in the world could you bring together such unique peoples, lands and industries in one nation? Alaska, our last frontier state, truly embodies "North to the Future."

"To the lover of wilderness, Alaska is one of the most wonderful countries in the world." -John Muir

Sources:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alaska
http://www.alaska.com/
http://www.state.ak.us/