Purchase of Alaska 1

“Preparing for the Heated Term”

Purchase of Alaska

 

This particular cartoon “Preparing for the Heated Term” focuses on the issue of the Purchase of Alaska. In this particular cartoon, the cartoonist’s message is that William Seward is purchasing Alaska. He is helping a man carry a big chunk of ice known as “Alaska”. It costs $7M but turns out to be a bargain deal.

The cartoonist uses labeling and irony. He is labeling Alaska as Russian America.  He also uses irony because he is helping the Russians use the big chunk of ice to America. It assumes that more Russian-Americans may see the United States as a more viable country in terms of economy, culture and military stature.