Jeff Thomas

1910 Jeff Thomas

Alaska, 1910; remote, vast, empty. Known to contain fur, fish and timber, many believe it holds gold and other precious minerals. Still owned by Russia after the United States Congress refuses to buy it, Alaska remains a tantalizing fruit for an ambitious country. America, now reunited after the Confederate victory in the Civil War believes that ownership of Alaska is its natural right. "Manifest Destiny" and the Monroe Doctrine say so. With victory in the Spanish-American War, the United States is gaining overseas possession. America's new navy just sailed around the world, displaying the nation's military might. Japan, after sixty years of modernization, is also ready to take its place among the great powers of the world. Victories over China and Russia cement her status. Japan negotiates a purchase of Alaska. Japan too, has a large navy. Tension rises, America sends a note of protest, interpreted as racist condescension in Japan. Battleships from the Atlantic fleet follow the note, ready to protect American interests in the Pacific. War looms, any spark could ignite a fire that will consume two nations.