What was the primary objective of the Lewis and Clark Expedition?

The primary objective of the Lewis and Clark Expedition was to explore the newly acquired territories from the Louisiana Purchase. Following the United States' acquisition of this vast land from France in 1803, President Thomas Jefferson commissioned Meriwether Lewis and William Clark to undertake an expedition that would ultimately gather valuable information about the geography, natural resources, and the various Native American tribes inhabiting the region. This exploration aimed not only to enhance the scientific understanding of the area but also to facilitate westward expansion and provide critical insights for future settlers and the government.

The expedition successfully mapped an extensive route from the Mississippi River to the Pacific Ocean and significantly contributed to the knowledge of the American West, making it a key moment in the history of American exploration.