Lewis and Clark Expedition

Thomas Jefferson was now most anxious to learn about the land that had just been purchased. An exploring party was needed to go into the new territory. Such a party could find out about the region’s soil, climate, rivers, plants, and animals. Information was also needed about the Native Americans in the new area. They needed a map of the area. Two men were selected to head an expedition to carry out this task. These were Meriwether Lewis and William Clark. What they did was very important. Their exploration showed how valuable the Louisiana Territory was. It led the way to the settlement of the West.