Few realize that Russia established colonies in North America. But it's a fact that in the mid-18th century, Russia had begun encroaching into Alaskan territory. Eventually, the Russian Empire even had a toehold as far south as California. Fueling this expansion was the Russian-American Company, a trading monopoly centered on the lucrative fur trade. But how exactly did the Russians settle in Alaska, and why did they feel compelled to venture beyond those chilly climes?
Click and learn more about the deal.