Alaska has long experienced isolation from the rest of the United States due to lacking railroad connections and roads. It relies heavily on air and sea connections and the federal government for its economy. There are continuous controversies around developing Alaska's natural resources versus preserving its traditional way of life and environment. Key players involved include the federal government, state government, environmentalists, native Alaskans, developers, and homesteaders. Major events include Alaska's purchase, statehood, oil discovery, land claims settlement act, and conservation act attempting to balance competing interests.
