Lewis and Clark Expedition flash cards 2

Section 1: Lewis and Clark Expedition

Key People:

• Meriwether Lewis: Leader of the expedition, former military officer, knowledgeable about Native American languages and customs.

• William Clark: Second-in-command, had frontier experience.

• Sacagawea: Native American guide and interpreter, assisted with navigation and helped establish relationships with Native tribes.

• Thomas Jefferson: U.S. President who initiated the expedition after the Louisiana Purchase.

Reasons for the Exploration:

• Find a route to the Pacific Ocean.

• Establish contact with Native Americans.

• Document new species of plants, animals, and minerals.

• Expand fur trade opportunities.

Hardships Encountered:

• Harsh wilderness and weather conditions.

• Dangerous wildlife and terrain.

• Navigational challenges due to limited resources.

• Struggles with hunger and reliance on hunting and foraging.

Interactions with Native Americans:

• Mostly positive, with Native tribes helping by providing supplies, guiding, and translating.

• Some conflict with the Blackfeet Indians on the return trip, which led to casualties.

Impact on the U.S.:

• No clear Northwest Passage, but overland travel to the Pacific was proven possible.

• Discovered vast natural resources, including new species.

• Created opportunities for territorial expansion and settlement in the West.

• Strengthened U.S. claim to the Oregon Territory.

• Set the stage for future territorial disputes.