Why Alaska was a large cruiser, not a battlecruiser

Should the Alaska class be classified as battlecruisers?

No; despite their size, their design and role fit the large-cruiser category.

Size alone does not turn a large cruiser into a battlecruiser. The US Navy's classification fits Alaska because its design lineage, intended opponents, protection, and fleet role remained those of an enlarged cruiser. The label describes what the ship was built to do, not merely its displacement or gun diameter. Comparisons with superficially similar fast capital ships should therefore begin with design purpose and tactical employment.