1. In 1867, Secretary of State William H. Seward landed at Sitka, Alaska, to take possession of the territory from the Russians. The United States purchased Alaska from Russia for $7.2 million. Later, the day was designated as Alaska Day, and it is celebrated every year on October 18th.

2. In 1950, the Great Appalachian Storm brought heavy snowfall and hurricane-force winds to Alaska. A total of 38 inches of snow was recorded in the city of Anchorage, and widespread damage occurred.

3. In 1962, the state of Alaska was hit by a magnitude 6.7 earthquake that caused extensive damage to buildings and infrastructure. The earthquake was felt across the southern part of the state, including the cities of Anchorage, Seward, and Kodiak.

4. In 1980, the eruption of Mount St. Helens in Washington state caused ash to fall on parts of Alaska. The eruption produced an ash cloud that spread over much of the western United States and disrupted air travel for several days.

5. In 1992, the Exxon Valdez oil spill occurred in Prince William Sound. The tanker ran aground and spilled approximately 11 million gallons of crude oil into the ocean, causing extensive environmental damage. The effects of the spill are still being felt today, and it remains one of the most devastating environmental disasters in United States history.