Alaska became the 49th state of the United States on January 3, 1959. Before statehood, it was a territory, having been purchased from Russia in 1867. The push for statehood was driven by the desire for greater political representation and economic development. The process of achieving statehood involved significant political efforts, including the drafting of a state constitution. The Alaska Statehood Act was signed by President Dwight D. Eisenhower, allowing Alaska to join the Union. This marked a significant milestone in the history of the United States, expanding its territory and population.