By: Britney Loebig

The Lewis and Clark Expedition

Meriwether Lewis William Clark

1804-1806

In 1802, President Jefferson asked his private secretary, Meriwether Lewis, to command the expedition to explore the West. After the Louisiana Purchase was made, Lewis asked William Clark to join the expedition.

President Jefferson

How did the expedition start?

*The Louisiana Purchase was sold to the US by France in 1803, containing the western territory of the Mississippi Valley.*

Preparations for the journeyTo make a trip to the unknown, Lewis and Clark would need a lot of time to prepare. Congress gave Lewis and Clark $2,500 for the entire expedition. They actually needed about $40,000.

For the trip, Lewis and Clark needed the money to buy:

Transportation

Camping Supplies Clothing MedicineMathematical Instruments

Books, Tables, and Maps

*Presents for Native American Tribes they encountered.

Last Minute PreparationsClark went to Clarksville to organize and gather four dozen men. Meanwhile, Lewis was in Pittsburgh preparing boats and all of the supplies that were needed for the trip.

Beginning of JourneyOn May 14, 1804, the expedition was ready to take action. They traveled on The Ohio River, The Missouri River, The Salmon River, The Clearwater River, The Lochsa River, The Snake River, The Colombia River, and The Yellowstone river. While traveling on the rivers, they noted plants and animals. They also made tons of maps.

bird fern fish

Overall ResultThe overall result of the Lewis and Clark Expedition was receiving a better knowledge of the geography in the Northwest. This helped the movement of the pioneers in the mid 1800’s. Also, Lewis and Clark provided us with a better understanding of our country’s natural resources. Lastly, it established friendly relations with some of the Native Americans.

geography

natural resources

Pioneer movement

Friendly relations with Native Americans