Module VIII--World War II 1939-45: A Turning Point for Alaska

Essential Question-- Explain how Alaska's location was considered 'strategic' during World War II.  What were the war activities/events that supported the perspective of 'strategic' Alaska? 



Alaska World War II Major Military Sites

Alaska’s strategic importance became clear as events unfolded during World War II. It had been noted for over twenty years prior to the Japanese invasion of Pearl Harbor (Explore Alaska Blog). The U.S. government “had been planning the building of a defensive line that would run from Panama to Hawaii to Alaska.”

When Dutch harbor was attacked and the Aleutians were occupied in 1942, the ongoing argument of many historians was reinforced. Even though some believed that Japanese occupation of the Aleutians was a futile effort requiring massive investment in a climate which was unlivable (Garfield: The Thousand Mile War, 1969), the majority of global strategists argued that the best shipping route to Siberia depended on control of Dutch Harbor. Because Lend-Lease was just getting started to Asia, the strategic importance of the Alaska was reinforced.

Building of the Alaska Highway

Alaska's strategic location on a Great Circle route from the west coast of North America to Asia was well-known. Its proximity to the islands of Japan was of great concern to the U.S. as the world watched Japan build up its military and invade China. Well-known expert on air control, Billy Mitchell, said that “whoever holds Alaska will hold the world. I think it’s the most important strategic place in the world.” (Aleutian Islands Campaign, 2012).

Finally, the construction of the "Alaska Highway" through Canada was one of the most extraordinary acts ever achieved at that time. Workers from around the country came to build the ALCAN, in a race against time to protect Alaska and the Lower 48 from the axis powers.



Older Photo of the ALCAN Highway

Examine Question--Describe how the transportation infrastructure of Alaska was impacted during WWII by providing at least two examples.

ALCAN- Because of WWII, we built the Alaska Highway. If we had not been at war, this project may have taken decades to complete. Some indirect benefits included a road system and towns/ developments that would evolve in future years. I enjoyed driving the ALCAN a couple years ago. Though some parts are rather rugged, it was still a beautiful drive.

Airport and Harbor Construction on Adak (Davis Army Airfield)

Ports-Alaska’s port system was significantly developed and enhanced during WWII. Communication and transportation were vital during this time, and as a result, Alaska’s future generations benefitted from a Marine Coastal Highway System.

Airports- Military bases required air support, and advocates such as Billy Mitchell insisted that air superiority and infrastructure in Alaska were vital to its strategic importance. Many airports/fields were used for military tasks/transportation/combat. A few examples specifically used during WWII: Galena Army Airport, Gambell Airfield, Kiska Army Airfield, McGrath Army Airbase, Tanacross Air Base, Elmendorf Field, Davis Army Field, etc. Some have been abandoned; some are still in use today (possibly in a different capacity). This site has more information of the WWII Army Airfields.

Modules I’ve Visited—

Crossing Alaska-- Kristi points out that UAF offers students the opportunity to "explore Alaska" via field experience! I totally agree.

Explore AK-- I loved Tina's section on Alaskan recreation. She points out many different & unique opportunities we have as Alaskans!

Exploring Alaska from the Coast-- It was interesting to read Chelsey's comments on the health services in Scammon Bay. I think it is very interesting that their kids get fluoride treatments. I assumed that all tap water contained fluoride but I guess I was wrong! Very nice blog!

Evaluation—

Learning about WWII in the Lower 48, we never studied much about Alaska’s role. This module was neat to get a glimpse into how important our state really was in the war. It’s also interesting to see the lasting impacts of the war on Alaska, such as the ALCAN Highway.