Louisiana Purchase Research Paper

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Exploration of territory obtained by the United States Government with the Louisiana Purchase in the early 1800’s was of vital importance for settlement into the newly acquired land. The Louisiana Purchase includes eight hundred and twenty-five thousand square miles (Ambrose, 13). This purchase doubles the size of the United States stretching from west of the Mississippi (“Sacagawea - Native American History - HISTORY.com). Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, who were considered to be two of the finest explorers of the time, were commissioned to explore this region (“Sacagawea - Native American History - HISTORY.com). Little was known about this land, and neither Lewis nor Clark spoke French or any Indian languages (Lewis and Clark. Inside the Corps. The Corps. Sacagawea | PBS). The explorers hired a Frenchman and his young Native American wife, named Sacagawea, to translate for them on their journey. Sacagawea helped the men by being their guide, translator and sometimes provider (“Sacagawea - Native American History - HISTORY.com). Her presence and skills are an important reason as to why Lewis and Clark were able to change America by opening up this territory for expansion of the young country. This paper will present …show more content…

When their boat capsized, she was able to save several important supplies and crucial papers, books, navigation instruments, and medicines. She did this while carrying her baby on her back (“Sacagawea - Native American History - HISTORY.com.) She also taught the explorers how to find edible roots and plants that the Americans were unfamiliar with (United States Mint · About The Mint). She also helped keep the men alive by catching small animals for them to consume. Her abilities and calmness in times of crises helped earn her the respect of the captains of the exploration, with them naming a river after her (My Hero Project -

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