I think in the generation that went through the statehood battle there were some who emerged who truly loved this state and its people, although in differing ways.  I think especially of Jay Hammond (who opposed statehood) and Wally Hickel (who championed it).  They were diametrically opposed politicians with drastically different visions for Alaska, but they both loved it with all their hearts and souls.  The rivalry between those two and the ways they shaped Alaska would make for a fascinating book.  Neither one of them fit anyone's mold for how a politician is supposed to think and act.  They were both Republicans, but neither of them was a party hack.  Both were highly controversial while in office and made plenty of enemies along the way (including each other), but I've come to believe that both wanted what they genuinely believed was best for Alaska and Alaskans.