In what year did Alaska become a state?

Alaska became a state in 1959, marking a significant moment in U.S. history as it became the 49th state to join the Union. The process of statehood began with the Alaska Statehood Act, which was signed into law by President Dwight D. Eisenhower on July 7, 1958. Following this, an election allowed Alaskans to vote on a state constitution, which was ratified, and their official admission into the United States occurred on January 3, 1959. This event was crucial in expanding the geographic and economic landscape of the country, as Alaska brought rich natural resources and strategic military importance. Understanding the year Alaska achieved statehood is essential as it underlines the evolution of state boundaries and governance within the United States.