Sheldon Jackson was a very influential man who lived from 1834-1909. He is extremely important to Alaskan history because he was so committed to the wellbeing of the natives in Alaska. He founded many schools and training centers for the natives and helped them in many more ways. He impacted Alaska’s history greatly which is why it is a great honor to study him.

Jackson was born in New York and also received a Princeton degree. He was also a Presbyterian minister and a political leader but he was most known for his extensive work in Alaska which he began in 1877. Being a humanitarian he became quickly devoted to the welfare of the natives in Alaska. He founded many schools and training centers for the Indians. He also brought, with the help of Captain Michael A. Healy, one thousand, three hundred reindeer to the Indians for food, shelter, and clothing.

Because of Sheldon Jackson’s political activity, certain events in history were impacted. Because of his friendship with President Benjamin Harrison, and his reputation as a political lobbyist, the second Organic Act was signed and Jackson became the First General Agent of Education in Alaska.

Sheldon Jackson was a very important man who helped Alaska become what it is today. Without him the people who lived there would not have had the educational system that they needed. He helped Alaska have the foundation it needed to become a territory and without him the Indians would not have had the opportunity to transition from their own culture to the American culture. He was a very great and helpful man to the modernization of Alaska. We are very fortunate to have him in our history.