The U.S. Military as Geographical Agent: The Case of Cold War Alaska^*

* The author wishes to gratefully acknowledge the technical assistance of Francis A. Galgano.

Abstract.

Alaska was strategically key to the U.S. defense plan during the cold war (1946–1989). As such, it was the scene of an enormous and sustained military investment, the effect of which was amplified by Alaska's undiversified economy, sparse development, small resident population, and marginalized political status at the beginning of the era. The strong military presence affected Alaskan demographics, economic development, and infrastructure and figured prominently in the admission of Alaska to the union in 1959. The high profile and long‐term presence of the U.S. military had such a dramatic affect on the course of Alaska that the result was tantamount to a “militarized landscape.”

Key words:

• Alaska
• cold war
• historical development
• militarized landscape

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Laurel J. Hummel

Dr. Hummel is an associate professor of geography at the U.S. Military Academy, West Point, New York 10996‐1695.