Lewis and Clark: the Making of an Expedition

In the early 19th century, Lewis and Clark embarked on a historic expedition across America, initiated by President Jefferson's Louisiana Purchase. The journey aimed to explore the land west of the Mississippi River. Lewis prepared by studying various sciences and gathering supplies, including recruiting William Clark. Their expedition resulted in detailed maps, new scientific discoveries, and established relations with Native Americans, notably with Sacagawea's help. The Corps of Discovery paved the way for westward expansion and remains a source of inspiration for modern explorers.

What was the primary reason behind the Lewis and Clark expedition?

• To explore the land acquired in the Louisiana Purchase

• To find gold and other precious minerals

• To find a new trade route to Asia

• To establish a new colony in the West

Which skills did Meriwether Lewis focus on learning before the expedition?

• Cooking and survival techniques

• Medicine, botany, astronomy, and zoology

• Military strategy and combat

• Navigation and cartography

Who was recruited by Lewis to help lead the expedition?

• Thomas Jefferson

• John Adams

• Sacagawea

• William Clark

What role did Sacagawea play in the expedition?

• She acted as an interpreter and guide

• She was the expedition's cook

• She led the military defense

• She was the main cartographer

What was one of the significant outcomes of the Lewis and Clark expedition?

• The immediate settlement of the West by thousands

• The creation of detailed maps of the American frontier

• The discovery of a direct route to Asia

• The establishment of a new American colony