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Alaska or as it is commonly known "the last frontier" is the most northern of all the states. This affectionate name is given to Alaska as lit is lightly populated and there still exists opportunities for the free spirited. Another name affectionately given to Alaska is "the land of the rising sun" due to the near brightness 24 hours a day seven days a week during the summer months. Alaska became the 49^th state in 1959.

Origin of state’s name: The word Alaska comes from the Eskimo word Alakshak that means peninsula.

Capital city The state capital Juneau is named after the first gold miners to discover gold there, his name was Joe Juneau. Juneau has a population of just over 30,000 people and is characterized by its breathtaking beauty. Alaska is surrounded by oceans on three sides and by Canada on the fourth. The Gulf of Alaska, the Bering Sea and the Artic Ocean are the three oceans. Nearly one third of Alaska lies within the Arctic Circle.

Population: Alaska has a population of just over 630,000 people based on the last census in 2000.

Driving Driver’s license information, applications, testing requirements, driver’s manuals and testing locations can all be found on the Alaska Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website.

http://www.state.ak.us/dmv/

Agriculture and Industry The states economy is driven by agriculture and industry.
The fishing and seafood industry is the state's largest private industry employer.
Agriculture includes seafood, dairy, vegetables and livestock  
Industry includes gold mining, tourism, food processing and wood and lumbar production

State Bird The Willow Ptarmigan or Willow Grouse is the state bird and is not commonly found in other states except Alaska

State Tree The Sitka Spruce is the state tree and is characterized by sharp needle like needles.

State Flower The “Forget me not” or Myosotis Alpestris is the state flower that is known for its delicate beauty.

State Song  The "Alaska Flag" is the state song that sings the praises of this great state.

Alaska- Interesting Facts

• People from Alaska are called Alaskans.
• 17 of the 20 highest peaks in the United States are located in Alaska.
• Alaska's most important revenue source is the oil and natural gas industry with Alaska accounting for 25% of the oil produced in the United States.
• At 20,320 feet above sea level, Mt. McKinley, located in Alaska's interior, is the highest point in North America.
• Alaska is the United State's largest state and is over twice the size of Texas
• The lowest temperature on record was -80 degrees Fahrenheit at Prospect Creek Camp in 1971.

Alaska – Famous People

Many famous people were born and raised in Alaska and many famous people call Alaska their home today. This includes actors, athletes, authors, politicians and entertainers. These include the great author Margaret Elizabeth Bell, the great author and the great entrepreneur Austin Lanthrop.