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The Lewis and Clark Expedition, also known as the Corps of Discovery Expedition, was a significant exploration mission commissioned by President Thomas Jefferson after the United States acquired the Louisiana Territory from France in 1803. Led by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, the expedition aimed to map the newly acquired land, establish trade, and assert American presence before European powers could claim it.

The journey began in May 1804 from St. Louis, Missouri, and lasted until September 1806, covering approximately 8,000 miles. The team consisted of about 45 members, including soldiers, a French-Indian interpreter named Toussaint Charbonneau, his Shoshone wife Sacagawea, and their infant son. Sacagawea played a crucial role, providing linguistic assistance and helping secure horses and supplies.

The expedition travelled up the Missouri River, across the Rocky Mountains, and down the Columbia River to the Pacific Ocean. Throughout their journey, they documented over 300 species of plants and animals, many of which were previously unknown to science. They also established relations with various Native American tribes, learning about their cultures and ways of life.

Despite numerous challenges, including harsh weather, rough terrain, and scarce supplies, the expedition was deemed a success. The information gathered by Lewis and Clark provided valuable insights into the geography, biology, and ethnography of the western territories, paving the way for westward expansion. Their detailed maps and journals contributed significantly to America’s understanding of its new land, solidifying the nation’s claim and fueling its Manifest Destiny aspirations.