Roots

If only more Alaskans had roots in the cultural richness of the region. A common framework of reference is desperately needed. In a political year it would be fine if we could say of a candidate: "He's as slippery as .... was;" or "He lies almost as well as .... did;" or "We haven't seen such a phony since .... beguiled us."

Aside from Soapy Smith of Skagway fame, Alaskans lack regional heroes. And even Smith, a grand rogue, is too far removed from us to serve very well.

Lacking any appreciation of Alaska's past, we are driven to rely on national historic characters when we seek inspiration. Although America's tradition is rich in scoundrels and con men, we miss regional models. At one time Alaskans could identify with clarity the villainy of Seattle fishery interests and the strangling perfidiousness of the Florgan Guggenheim Syndicate. Here were villains to be hissed and scorned, recognizable objects to blame and defile for all our woes.

Alaskans are divided on many issues. If they could dip into a common, local heritage and fling mud at their foes from a common pot, they would be richer. We need a common heritage as much as a common language. It just doesn't do to relate current problems wholly to facets of the national experience. Great controversies are raging and adversaries, in their ignorance, are unable to score telling points against their enemies by drawing upon the past. A few history buffs know that monumental stereotypes exist for all contemporary antagonists. And it is always relevant to link the evil of the past with the present. But you must know your roots.