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Today in History: Nixon authorizes construction of Trans-Alaska Pipeline

11/16/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On November 16, 1973, President Richard Nixon signed the Trans-Alaska Pipeline Authorization Act, permitting the construction of a pipeline from Alaska's North Slope to Port Valdez. This legislation halted legal challenges from environmental activists and excluded federal and state agencies from regulating the project, facilitating one of the world's largest oil transportation systems.

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Story summary

On November 16, 1973, President Richard Nixon signed the Trans-Alaska Pipeline Authorization Act, permitting the construction of a pipeline from Alaska's North Slope to Port Valdez. This legislation halted legal challenges from environmental activists and excluded federal and state agencies from regulating the project, facilitating one of the world's largest oil transportation systems.