why was the Lewis and Clark expedition important?
http://www2.grand-forks.k12.nd.us/elem/ss/lc/lcimport.htm
The Lewis and Clark expedition, also known as the Corps of Discovery, was important for several reasons:
1. Exploration: The primary goal of the expedition was to explore and map the newly acquired Louisiana Purchase territory. Lewis and Clark were commissioned by President Thomas Jefferson to find a practical route across the western half of the North American continent, which helped expand American knowledge of the frontier.
2. Scientific Discovery: The expedition gathered valuable scientific information about the flora, fauna, and geography of the region they explored. They documented previously unknown species of plants and animals and collected geological samples, providing a better understanding of the natural resources and potential for settlement in the West.
3. Native American Relations: Lewis and Clark interacted and established relationships with various Native American tribes during their journey. This helped improve diplomatic relations with these tribes and laid the foundation for future interactions between indigenous peoples and the United States government.
4. National Identity and Unity: The successful completion of the expedition instilled a sense of national pride and unity among Americans. It confirmed the belief in American exceptionalism and proved that the young nation had the capacity to explore and conquer vast territories.
5. Economic Expansion: The expedition's findings paved the way for westward expansion and increased American interest in the lands beyond the Mississippi River. The information gathered by Lewis and Clark helped promote settlement, trade, and the development of resources in the West.
Overall, the Lewis and Clark expedition played a significant role in expanding American understanding of the continent, fostering scientific knowledge, improving diplomatic relations, and encouraging westward expansion.
The Lewis and Clark expedition, also known as the Corps of Discovery, was important for several reasons:
1. Exploration and Mapping: The expedition aimed to explore and map the newly acquired western territories of the United States, including the Louisiana Purchase. They collected valuable geographical, botanical, and animal specimen data, which significantly expanded the knowledge of the uncharted territories.
To learn more about the importance of the Lewis and Clark expedition, you can search for credible sources such as history books, scholarly articles, or reliable websites. These sources will provide detailed information on the impact and significance of the expedition.