key term - Corps of Discovery

Definition

The Corps of Discovery was a specially selected group of explorers led by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, tasked with exploring the newly acquired western territories following the Louisiana Purchase. This expedition aimed to map the land, establish trade with Native American tribes, and find a practical route to the Pacific Ocean. Their journey significantly contributed to the understanding of the geography, flora, fauna, and indigenous cultures of the American West, promoting further westward expansion.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Corps of Discovery set out on their journey in May 1804 and returned in September 1806, covering over 8,000 miles.
2. The expedition provided detailed maps and extensive notes on the geography and natural resources of the land, which were crucial for future settlers.
3. They maintained diplomatic relations with various Native American tribes, establishing trade relationships and gathering valuable information about the region.
4. The journey included significant discoveries such as new animal species, plant life, and a better understanding of the Missouri River and its tributaries.
5. The expedition inspired a sense of national pride and encouraged further westward expansion, influencing American attitudes toward Manifest Destiny.

Review Questions

• How did the Corps of Discovery contribute to America's understanding of its western territories?
  • The Corps of Discovery played a vital role in expanding America's knowledge of its western territories through extensive mapping and documentation. Their journey across diverse landscapes helped identify geographic features and natural resources that were previously unknown. The detailed notes they collected on plant and animal species, as well as interactions with Native American tribes, provided crucial insights that fueled interest in westward expansion.
• Evaluate the significance of the relationships formed between the Corps of Discovery and Native American tribes during their expedition.
  • The relationships formed between the Corps of Discovery and Native American tribes were significant because they laid the groundwork for future interactions between settlers and indigenous populations. These diplomatic engagements facilitated trade and helped to gather crucial knowledge about local resources and cultures. However, these relationships also foreshadowed later conflicts as more settlers moved westward, often leading to tensions over land and sovereignty.
• Analyze how the accomplishments of the Corps of Discovery influenced American expansionist policies in the early 19th century.
  • The accomplishments of the Corps of Discovery had a profound impact on American expansionist policies by providing a sense of legitimacy to territorial claims in the West. Their detailed maps and observations not only showcased the potential for agriculture and settlement but also fueled public interest in exploring new lands. This alignment with the ideology of Manifest Destiny encouraged policymakers to pursue further expansion efforts, resulting in subsequent treaties and conflicts with Native American tribes as settlers moved into these newly explored territories.

Related terms

Louisiana Purchase:

A land deal between the United States and France in 1803 that doubled the size of the U.S. by acquiring approximately 828,000 square miles of territory.

Meriwether Lewis:

An American explorer and soldier who was chosen by President Thomas Jefferson to lead the Corps of Discovery alongside William Clark.

William Clark:

An American explorer who served as co-leader of the Corps of Discovery, known for his mapping skills and interactions with Native American tribes.