Alaska Statehood Act
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The Alaska Statehood Act was introduced by Delegate E.L. Bob Bartlett and signed by President Dwight D. Eisenhower on July 7, 1958. As a result, Alaska became the 49th U.S. state on January 3, 1959. The law was the culmination of a multi-decade effort by many prominent Alaskans, including Bartlett, Ernest Gruening, Bill Egan, Bob Atwood, and Ted Stevens.
Signing of the Alaska Statehood Act
Bob Bartlett and Ernest Gruening hold the 49 star U.S. Flag after the admission of Alaska as the 49th state.
Ted Stevens was instrumental in passing the law through the executive branch.
Delegate Bartlett was key in gathering support in the legislative branch.
Constitution of Alaska
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The Constitution of the State of Alaska was ratified on April 4, 1956 and took effect with Alaska's admission to the United States as a U.S. state on January 3, 1959.
The UA gymnasium/library where the constitution was signed on February 6, 1956, currently known as Signers' Hall.