Alaska is the largest and northernmost state of the USA and is located in the northwest of the North American continent. The capital is Juneau. Alaska was sold from Russia to the USA in 1867 and became the 49th state of the USA in 1959. Typical for Alaska are untouched wilderness, extreme climatic conditions and rich wildlife. The Northern Lights, Native culture and gold rush history characterize the state. Sights include Denali National Park, Kenai Fjords National Park and the historic gold rush town of Skagway.