On January 11, 1913, Alaska’s first territorial legislature convened in Juneau following congressional establishment of Alaska as a U.S. territory with self-governing authority. The body included a territorial Senate and House of Representatives and could legislate on local matters. Though ultimate authority remained with the U.S. Congress and appointed territorial governor, the legislature allowed greater local input. Its formation represented a step in Alaska’s political maturation and movement toward statehood. It also helped structure political, economic, and social institutions in the territory.
