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FormatJournal Article
Author, AnalyticAragai, David
Title, AnalyticHow a Swiss Person Bought a Part of the Russian Empire in California: Revisiting Johann August Sutter’s Purchase of Fort Ross in 1841
Journal TitleSwiss American Historical Society Review
Date of PublicationJune 2025
Volume ID61
Issue ID2
Location in Work1-28-82, ill.
View OnlinePDF
AbstractFounded in 1812, Fort Ross was originally an outpost of the Russian Empire; the southernmost on the American continent and the one farthest from the imperial capital, St. Petersburg. It was built with the intent to help feed the Alaskan colony, as well as to collect the pelts of sea otters and other mammals from the surrounding waters. When the mammals were depleted, the settlement was sold to Johann August Sutter in 1841.
Call NumberMKI Periodicals
MKI TermsSutter, John Augustus, 1803-1880/ Swiss Americans -- California