10 Cool Facts About The Lewis & Clark Expedition

Summary

The Lewis and Clark expedition, commissioned by President Thomas Jefferson in 1803, explored vast new territories following the Louisiana Purchase, aiming to find a westward water route to the Pacific. Led by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, the journey was marked by adventure, survival, and remarkable figures like Sacagawea, who played a crucial role as a guide and peacemaker. Alongside them was York, Clark's African-American slave turned free man. The expedition’s hardships, including lack of supplies and harsh winter conditions, were offset by invaluable discoveries and relationships. Only one member died on the perilous journey, leaving an indelible legacy in American history.

Takeaways

• 😀 Thomas Jefferson's Louisiana Purchase in 1803 greatly expanded the size of the United States, but public opinion was divided about it.
• 😀 The Lewis and Clark expedition, led by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, was commissioned to explore the newly acquired territory and find a water route to the Pacific.
• 😀 The expedition allowed for a highly democratic decision-making process, with all members, including African American York and Native American guide Sacagawea, having a vote.
• 😀 Sacagawea was instrumental to the expedition's success, saving important items from a river, and ensuring peaceful relations with various Native American tribes.
• 😀 The expedition aimed to find a water route across the continent, but Jefferson was disappointed to learn none existed. However, the team brought back valuable scientific findings and artifacts.
• 😀 Despite the extreme hardships, including running out of supplies and near-starvation, the Lewis and Clark expedition only lost one member, Sergeant Charles Floyd, to illness.
• 😀 Sacagawea's presence on the expedition helped the team gain respect and trust from Native American tribes, who saw her as a symbol of peaceful travelers.
• 😀 While the expedition faced life-threatening dangers, including grizzly bears and lack of food, the survival of the team was remarkable considering the circumstances.
• 😀 Seaman, Lewis's Newfoundland dog, played a crucial role in protecting the expedition and was known for his bravery, even saving team members from dangerous situations.
• 😀 The expedition members often named geographical landmarks after loved ones, including rivers named after sweethearts, reflecting the emotional toll of being away from home for so long.

Q & A

What was the Louisiana Purchase and why was it significant?

The Louisiana Purchase was a land acquisition in 1803 where Thomas Jefferson bought 828,000 square miles from France. It significantly expanded the United States, doubling its size and opening up new opportunities for exploration and settlement.

How did Jefferson gain public support for the Louisiana Purchase?

To gain public support, Thomas Jefferson ordered the Lewis and Clark expedition through the newly acquired territory, which helped generate interest and excitement about the land, despite mixed public reactions at the time.

How did the corps of discovery treat their members with different social statuses?

The members of the Corps of Discovery, including Sacagawea and York, were treated with equality. Every member had an equal vote in decisions, and no one was limited by their origin, status, or ethnicity, which was especially significant for York, who was Clark's slave.

What was the significance of Sacagawea's role in the expedition?

Sacagawea was crucial to the expedition’s success as a guide and translator. She helped navigate the terrain, identified edible and medicinal plants, and saved vital items from the river while caring for her child. Her presence also signaled to Native American tribes that the expedition was peaceful.

What challenges did the Lewis and Clark expedition face during their journey?

The expedition faced numerous challenges, including harsh weather, dangerous rivers, lack of supplies, and the threat of Native American attacks. At one point, the corps was reduced to eating tallow candles, and their survival was at risk.

What happened when the expedition encountered the Nez Perce tribe?

The Nez Perce initially considered attacking the expedition but were persuaded by a woman named Watkuweis, who had been previously rescued by white men. She convinced the tribe to help the corps, ultimately saving their lives.

What happened to Sergeant Charles Floyd during the expedition?

Sergeant Charles Floyd became ill with severe abdominal pain and died three months into the journey. His death was the only one in the entire expedition, and he was buried at a site later named Floyd Bluff.

Who was Jean Baptiste, and what role did he play in the expedition?

Jean Baptiste, known as Pomp, was the infant son of Sacagawea and her husband. He accompanied the expedition, and after the journey, Clark helped raise him and paid for his education. The men of the corps also enjoyed caring for and playing with him.

What legacy did the Lewis and Clark expedition leave in terms of physical markers?

While many physical markers left by the expedition have disappeared, one notable surviving trace is the inscription Clark carved into Pompeys Pillar in Montana. This rock formation is named after Sacagawea’s son, Pompey.

What role did Seaman, Meriwether Lewis’s dog, play in the expedition?

Seaman, Lewis's Newfoundland dog, was a key companion during the expedition. Seaman saved corps members from drowning and even fought off a grizzly bear. He was also highly regarded by Native American tribes, who attempted to steal him at one point.