What were the achievements of the Lewis and Clark expedition?

Answer 1

One of the most significant contributions of the Lewis and Clark Expedition was a better perception of the geography of the Northwest and the production of the first accurate maps of the area. During the journey, Lewis and Clark prepared approximately 140 maps. One important result of the Lewis and Clark expedition was that it enabled the United States to lay claim to the Oregon region. This claim helped make possible the great pioneer movement that settled the West in the mid-1800's.

A second achievement of the expedition was a better understanding of the country's Natural Resources. During the journey, the expedition documented over 122 species of animals and approximately 178 plants. The expedition even sent a caged prairie dog, which had never been seen before in the East, to President Jefferson as a gift.

Another achievement of the Lewis and Clark Expedition was that it established friendly relations with some of the Native American tribes. For the most part, encounters between the three dozen Indian tribes and the expedition were successful. They collected a variety of Indian goods and gathered information on Indian languages and culture.

An important exploration with a few distorted conclusions. There was no great American desert, the mountain could be crossed, the rivers could be tamed and the supply of game was not inexhaustible. They did create an interest in the West that trappers, traders and other adventurous types could not keep away from.