key term - Sacagawea

Definition

Sacagawea was a Shoshone woman who played a crucial role as a guide and interpreter for the Lewis and Clark Expedition from 1804 to 1806. Her knowledge of the land and ability to communicate with various Native American tribes were instrumental in the expedition's success, helping to pave the way for westward expansion and exploration following the Louisiana Purchase.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sacagawea was born around 1788 and was kidnapped by a rival tribe at a young age before eventually marrying French fur trader Toussaint Charbonneau.
2. Her most notable contribution was her ability to act as an interpreter between the expedition members and various Native American tribes, helping establish peaceful relations.
3. Sacagawea traveled over 5,000 miles during the expedition while caring for her infant son, Jean Baptiste, showcasing her resilience and dedication.
4. She was key in finding safe passage through difficult terrains, including the Rocky Mountains, where her knowledge of local geography proved invaluable.
5. In recognition of her contributions, Sacagawea is often celebrated as a symbol of bravery and is depicted on various U.S. currency, including the golden dollar coin issued in 2000.

Review Questions

• How did Sacagawea's skills contribute to the success of the Lewis and Clark Expedition?
  • Sacagawea's skills as a guide and interpreter were essential for the Lewis and Clark Expedition. She helped navigate unfamiliar territories and facilitated communication between the expedition members and various Native American tribes they encountered. Her understanding of local customs and languages allowed for peaceful interactions, which were crucial for obtaining supplies and information about the terrain ahead.
• Discuss the impact of Sacagawea's journey on perceptions of Native American women in American history.
  • Sacagawea's journey with Lewis and Clark significantly altered perceptions of Native American women in American history. Traditionally seen as passive figures in a male-dominated society, her active role as a guide, interpreter, and mother during a pivotal expedition showcased Native women’s strength, intelligence, and capability. This has led to greater recognition of their contributions to American history and opened discussions about their roles beyond stereotypes.
• Evaluate the broader significance of Sacagawea's contributions within the context of westward expansion after the Louisiana Purchase.
  • Sacagawea's contributions had broader significance within the context of westward expansion after the Louisiana Purchase by facilitating exploration that opened new territories for settlement. Her ability to bridge cultural divides helped ease tensions between expanding American settlers and Indigenous populations. This interaction laid the groundwork for future relations between Native Americans and American settlers, highlighting both the complexities and consequences of westward expansion during this transformative period in U.S. history.

Related terms

Lewis and Clark Expedition:

A journey commissioned by President Thomas Jefferson to explore the newly acquired western territory, documenting geography, flora, fauna, and the cultures encountered.

Louisiana Purchase:

The 1803 acquisition of the vast territory from France that doubled the size of the United States, providing new lands for exploration and settlement.

Shoshone Tribe: A Native American tribe originally from the Great Basin region, known for their nomadic lifestyle and significant involvement in trade and diplomacy with other tribes.