How the Louisiana Purchase Was Negotiated

Thomas Jefferson, determined to acquire New Orleans, sent James Monroe to assist Robert Livingston in negotiations with France. Initially, Napoleon Bonaparte was reluctant to sell, but later offered the entire Louisiana Territory for $15 million. Monroe and Livingston, unable to consult Jefferson due to slow communication, decided to accept the offer. Napoleon's decision was influenced by the need for funds for wars and the impracticality of defending the territory. The video concludes with a review and quiz on the events.

What was the total area covered by the Louisiana Territory in square miles?

• 500,000

• 828,000

• 1,000,000

• 1,200,000

What were the potential consequences if Monroe and Livingston had turned down Napoleon's offer?

• The French government might build colonies

• The US would have to fight for access to the Mississippi River

• Both A and B

• None of the above

Who did President Jefferson send to Paris to help Robert Livingston make a deal with the French?

• James Monroe

• Alexander Hamilton

• Benjamin Franklin

• None of the above

How much did Monroe and Livingston agree to pay for the entire Louisiana Territory?

• $2,000,000

• $10 million

• $15 million

• $25 million

Why did Napoleon decide to sell the Louisiana Territory?

• To fund ongoing wars

• To make the US an ally

• It was too difficult to protect the area

• All of the above