The Lousiana Purchase removed a major point of contention between the United States and a European power but left many others. Which areas of possible conflict remained, and what were the sources of these potential conflicts?

The Louisiana Purchase, completed in 1803, indeed resolved a significant point of contention between the United States and a European power, namely France. However, it did leave several other areas of possible conflict between the United States and other European powers.

1. Borders and Territorial Claims: The acquisition of the vast Louisiana Territory raised questions about the exact extent of the U.S. borders. This led to potential clashes with other European powers that had territorial claims or conflicting interests in North America. For instance, Spain, which had previously controlled Louisiana, still held claim to territory west of the Mississippi River and would later give way to tensions between the U.S. and its expansionist aspirations in the West.

2. Native American Relations: The Louisiana Purchase brought the United States into direct contact with numerous Native American tribes who inhabited the newly acquired lands. The differing attitudes and policies towards Native Americans between European powers and the United States often resulted in conflicts and strained relations. The U.S. had its own policies concerning the expansion into Native American lands and the displacement of indigenous populations, which could be a source of tension with European powers.

3. Trade and Economic Interests: The Louisiana Territory's strategic position along the Mississippi River and the Gulf of Mexico made it crucial for commerce and trade. The United States sought to establish and expand its economic presence in the region, which could potentially clash with the economic interests of other European powers. Disputes over navigation rights, tariffs, and trade regulations could arise, causing conflicts both economically and politically.

4. Influence in the New World: The Louisiana Purchase dramatically increased the territorial reach and influence of the United States. This expansion of American power posed a potential challenge to the existing European colonial powers, mainly Britain. As the United States sought to solidify its presence and extend influence in North America, it could clash with European powers seeking to maintain or expand their own spheres of influence.

5. Slavery and Political Divisions: The issue of slavery was one of the primary sources of contention that persisted even after the Louisiana Purchase. The acquisition of vast new territories raised questions about the expansion of slavery, which further fueled existing political divisions between the Northern and Southern states. The conflict over the expansion of slavery eventually escalated into the American Civil War.

To summarize, while the Louisiana Purchase removed a significant point of contention with France, it left behind numerous sources of potential conflict between the United States and other European powers. These included territorial disputes, Native American relations, economic competition, struggles for influence, and the divisive issue of slavery.