2.2 Lewis and Clark expedition
9 min read•august 21, 2024
The Lewis and Clark expedition was a pivotal moment in Washington State's early history. Commissioned by President Jefferson in 1803, it aimed to explore the newly acquired and establish a U.S. presence in the Pacific Northwest.
The expedition's goals included finding a water route to the Pacific, documenting flora and fauna, and fostering relations with Native tribes. Led by and , the team faced numerous challenges as they traversed the continent, ultimately reaching the Pacific coast in 1805.
Background of expedition
- Lewis and Clark expedition played a crucial role in shaping Washington State's early history and exploration
- Commissioned by President Thomas Jefferson in 1803 as part of the broader Louisiana Purchase
- Aimed to establish U.S. presence in the Pacific Northwest and gather scientific information about the region
Goals and motivations
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- Find a navigable water route to the Pacific Ocean for trade and commerce
- Establish diplomatic relations with Native American tribes in the newly acquired territories
- Document flora, fauna, and geography of the unexplored western lands
- Assess economic potential of natural resources in the region
- Strengthen U.S. territorial claims in the Pacific Northwest against European powers
Jefferson's role
- Conceived and planned the expedition as part of his vision for
- Personally selected Meriwether Lewis as the expedition leader due to his military experience and scientific knowledge
- Provided detailed instructions for scientific observations and diplomatic interactions
- Secured Congressional funding and support for the mission
- Maintained correspondence with Lewis throughout the journey, offering guidance and encouragement
Preparations and funding
- Congress appropriated 58,000 in modern currency
- Lewis received extensive training in natural sciences, medicine, and celestial navigation
- Gathered essential supplies including weapons, scientific instruments, and trade goods
- Recruited skilled team members with diverse expertise (hunting, carpentry, interpreting)
- Constructed a custom-designed keelboat for river travel and transportation of supplies
Key expedition members
- Lewis and Clark expedition team composition reflected the diverse skills needed for the journey
- included soldiers, frontiersmen, and interpreters from various backgrounds
- Key members played crucial roles in the success of the expedition and its impact on Washington State history
Lewis and Clark profiles
- Meriwether Lewis
- Personal secretary to President Jefferson and skilled naturalist
- Led scientific observations and diplomatic negotiations
- Kept detailed journals documenting the journey and discoveries
- William Clark
- Experienced military officer and expert cartographer
- Managed day-to-day operations and logistics of the expedition
- Created maps of the explored territories, including parts of present-day Washington
Corps of Discovery
- Consisted of approximately 33 permanent members, known as the "Nine Young Men from Kentucky"
- Included skilled hunters, interpreters, and boatmen essential for the journey
- Notable members
- John Colter: Expert hunter and explorer who later became a famous mountain man
- York: Clark's enslaved servant, who played a crucial role in interactions with Native tribes
- George Drouillard: Skilled hunter and interpreter fluent in sign language
Sacagawea's contributions
- woman who joined the expedition with her husband, Toussaint Charbonneau
- Served as an interpreter and cultural liaison with Native American tribes
- Provided valuable knowledge of local plants, geography, and survival techniques
- Her presence with her infant son helped signify the peaceful nature of the expedition
- Recognized as a key figure in Washington State history, with numerous landmarks named in her honor
Journey westward
- Lewis and Clark expedition's westward journey significantly impacted the exploration of Washington State
- Traversed diverse landscapes, from the Great Plains to the and Pacific Northwest
- Documented previously unknown geographical features and ecosystems along the route
Missouri River route
- Departed from St. Louis on May 14, 1804, traveling up the Missouri River
- Navigated through present-day Missouri, Kansas, Iowa, Nebraska, and South Dakota
- Encountered numerous challenges including strong currents, sandbars, and fallen trees
- Established winter camp at Fort Mandan in North Dakota, where they met and Charbonneau
Rocky Mountains crossing
- Reached the Rocky Mountains in present-day Montana in spring 1805
- Faced difficult terrain, extreme weather conditions, and food shortages
- Crossed the Continental Divide at Lemhi Pass, marking their entry into the Pacific watershed
- Received crucial assistance from the Shoshone tribe, who provided horses and guides
Columbia River exploration
- Entered present-day Washington State via the Snake River in October 1805
- Navigated the treacherous rapids and falls of the
- Documented important landmarks including Celilo Falls and Mount Hood
- Reached the Pacific Ocean on November 15, 1805, marking a significant milestone in the expedition
Interactions with Native Americans
- Lewis and Clark expedition's encounters with Native American tribes shaped early relations in Washington State
- Interactions ranged from peaceful exchanges to tense confrontations
- Expedition's experiences with tribes provided valuable insights into indigenous cultures and territories
Tribal encounters
- Met with over 50 different Native American tribes throughout the journey
- Notable Washington State tribes encountered included the , Yakama, and Chinook
- Conducted formal councils and ceremonies to establish diplomatic relations
- Documented tribal customs, languages, and population estimates in their journals
Trade and diplomacy
- Carried peace medals, tobacco, and trade goods to facilitate positive interactions
- Engaged in gift exchanges and bartering for food, supplies, and information
- Attempted to broker peace between warring tribes to facilitate future American trade
- Proclaimed U.S. sovereignty and encouraged tribes to ally with the new nation
Cultural exchanges
- Learned about Native American medicinal practices and incorporated them into expedition healthcare
- Observed and documented tribal social structures, religious beliefs, and material culture
- Shared technological innovations like firearms and scientific instruments with curious tribe members
- Expedition members participated in tribal ceremonies and games, fostering mutual understanding
Scientific discoveries
- Lewis and Clark expedition made significant scientific contributions to the knowledge of Washington State
- Documented previously unknown species and geological features
- Observations and collections greatly expanded scientific understanding of the American West
Flora and fauna documentation
- Discovered and described over 178 new plant species and 122 previously unknown animal species
- Collected plant specimens for scientific study, including the Lewis's woodpecker and Clark's nutcracker
- Documented medicinal uses of plants by Native American tribes
- Observed and recorded wildlife behavior, including the first description of grizzly bears
Geographical observations
- Mapped the course of major rivers including the Columbia and Snake Rivers
- Recorded detailed descriptions of landforms, soil types, and mineral deposits
- Documented climate patterns and weather phenomena across different regions
- Observed and described geological features such as the Columbia River Gorge
Cartography advancements
- Created the first accurate maps of the Pacific Northwest, including present-day Washington State
- Utilized celestial navigation and dead reckoning to determine latitude and longitude
- Produced detailed sketches of landmarks and river systems
- Corrected previous misconceptions about western geography, disproving the existence of a Northwest Passage
Arrival in Pacific Northwest
- Lewis and Clark expedition's arrival in the Pacific Northwest marked a pivotal moment in Washington State history
- Established the first American presence on the Pacific coast
- Interactions with coastal tribes laid the foundation for future relations in the region
Fort Clatsop establishment
- Constructed near present-day Astoria, Oregon in December 1805
- Served as winter quarters for the expedition from December 1805 to March 1806
- Built to provide shelter from harsh coastal weather and protection from potentially hostile tribes
- Conducted scientific observations and prepared for the return journey
Winter at the coast
- Endured challenging conditions including constant rain, fog, and food shortages
- Continued scientific documentation of local flora, fauna, and geography
- Repaired and maintained equipment, clothing, and weapons
- Prepared detailed maps and journals summarizing the expedition's findings
Interactions with coastal tribes
- Established contact with Chinook, Clatsop, and Tillamook tribes
- Engaged in trade for food, furs, and local knowledge
- Documented coastal tribal customs, languages, and material culture
- Experienced occasional tensions due to cultural misunderstandings and resource competition
Return journey
- Lewis and Clark expedition's return journey contributed to further exploration of Washington State
- Employed different strategies to cover more ground and gather additional information
- Faced numerous challenges but successfully completed the historic round trip
Split expedition strategy
- Divided into smaller groups to explore different routes and cover more territory
- Lewis led a group north to explore the Marias River in present-day Montana
- Clark headed southeast to explore the Yellowstone River region
- Allowed for more comprehensive mapping and scientific observations of the region
Challenges and obstacles
- Encountered hostile Blackfeet warriors, resulting in the expedition's only violent conflict
- Navigated treacherous mountain passes and swift river currents
- Faced food shortages and relied on hunting and trading with Native tribes
- Battled extreme weather conditions, including late spring snowstorms
Arrival in St. Louis
- Reunited near the confluence of the Yellowstone and Missouri Rivers
- Rapidly descended the Missouri River, covering up to 70 miles per day
- Reached St. Louis on September 23, 1806, completing the 8,000-mile round trip
- Received a hero's welcome and began the process of reporting their findings to President Jefferson
Expedition outcomes
- Lewis and Clark expedition had far-reaching consequences for Washington State and the nation
- Findings shaped American perceptions of the West and influenced future exploration and settlement
- Scientific and cultural discoveries contributed significantly to various fields of study
Territorial claims
- Strengthened U.S. claims to the Pacific Northwest, including present-day Washington State
- Provided basis for future negotiations with Great Britain over the Oregon Territory
- Established American presence in the region, countering British and Russian interests
- Led to increased American fur trading and settlement in the Columbia River basin
Scientific contributions
- Expanded knowledge of North American geography, correcting misconceptions about western terrain
- Contributed to the fields of botany, zoology, and ethnography with extensive specimen collections
- Advanced understanding of Native American cultures and languages
- Improved cartography of the western United States, including detailed river system maps
Impact on westward expansion
- Inspired future waves of explorers, traders, and settlers to venture into the Pacific Northwest
- Provided valuable information on routes, resources, and Native American tribes for future migrants
- Contributed to the development of the Oregon Trail and other westward migration routes
- Influenced U.S. policy on territorial expansion and Native American relations
Legacy in Washington State
- Lewis and Clark expedition left an indelible mark on Washington State's history and culture
- Expedition's impact is reflected in numerous place names, landmarks, and historical sites
- Continues to shape the state's identity and understanding of its early exploration period
Place names and landmarks
- Numerous geographical features named after expedition members (Lewis River, Clark Fork)
- Cities and counties bearing names related to the expedition (Lewis County, Clarkston)
- Natural landmarks identified and named during the journey (Mount St. Helens, Cape Disappointment)
- Rivers and waterways mapped by the expedition (Columbia River, Snake River)
Historical sites
- Fort Columbia State Park: Preserves the site where the expedition first viewed the Pacific Ocean
- Lewis and Clark Trail State Park: Commemorates the expedition's passage through the state
- Sacajawea State Park: Honors Sacagawea's contributions at the confluence of the Snake and Columbia Rivers
- Station Camp: Marks the expedition's campsite near the mouth of the Columbia River
Cultural significance
- Inspires ongoing historical research and reenactments throughout Washington State
- Influences local art, literature, and music celebrating the expedition's legacy
- Contributes to tourism industry through Lewis and Clark-themed attractions and events
- Shapes educational curricula, with the expedition featured prominently in Washington State history courses
Controversies and criticisms
- Lewis and Clark expedition's legacy in Washington State is subject to ongoing debate and reassessment
- Modern perspectives have raised questions about the expedition's impact and historical interpretation
- Scholars and indigenous communities continue to reevaluate the expedition's significance
Treatment of Native Americans
- Criticism of the expedition's role in facilitating future displacement of indigenous peoples
- Debates over the accuracy and ethnocentrism of Lewis and Clark's tribal descriptions
- Questions about the long-term consequences of introducing European diseases to Native populations
- Reassessment of power dynamics in expedition-tribal interactions and treaty negotiations
Environmental impact
- Concerns about the expedition's role in promoting resource exploitation in the Pacific Northwest
- Debates over the long-term ecological consequences of species collected or hunted during the journey
- Questions about the expedition's influence on future land use and development patterns
- Discussions on the accuracy of early environmental observations and their modern relevance
Historical accuracy debates
- Ongoing scholarly discussions about potential biases in expedition journals and reports
- Challenges to traditional narratives that emphasize the expedition's "discovery" of already inhabited lands
- Debates over the relative contributions of expedition members, particularly Sacagawea and York
- Reassessment of the expedition's scientific findings in light of modern knowledge and indigenous perspectives
Key Terms to Review (20)
Columbia River: The Columbia River is a major river in the Pacific Northwest region of North America, flowing from the Rocky Mountains in British Columbia through Washington and Oregon before emptying into the Pacific Ocean. It has served as a critical resource for transportation, trade, and cultural exchange among various communities, shaping the history and economy of the region.
Corps of Discovery: The Corps of Discovery was the name given to the expedition led by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark from 1804 to 1806, aimed at exploring the newly acquired western territories of the United States after the Louisiana Purchase. This journey was significant as it marked the first American expedition to traverse the western portion of the country, mapping the land, establishing trade relations with Native American tribes, and gathering valuable scientific information about flora, fauna, and geography.
Economic development: Economic development refers to the process by which a region improves the economic well-being of its residents through efforts to create jobs, enhance incomes, and foster economic growth. This concept is often linked to infrastructure improvements, resource management, and policy changes that stimulate trade and investment. In the context of various historical events, economic development is shaped by exploration, transportation advancements, territorial expansion, and international relations.
Establishing trade routes: Establishing trade routes refers to the process of creating and developing pathways for the exchange of goods and services between different regions. This concept is crucial in understanding economic interactions, cultural exchanges, and the spread of ideas, particularly during exploratory missions that sought to connect new territories with existing markets. Such routes not only facilitated commerce but also enabled diplomatic relations and cultural exchanges, significantly shaping historical developments.
Fort Clatsop: Fort Clatsop was a temporary military encampment established by the Lewis and Clark Expedition near the mouth of the Columbia River in what is now Oregon. Built in the winter of 1805-1806, it served as a crucial base for the expedition, providing shelter and supplies as they completed their journey to the Pacific Coast and prepared for their return eastward.
Great Falls: Great Falls refers to a series of five waterfalls located on the Missouri River in present-day Montana. These waterfalls were significant landmarks for the Lewis and Clark expedition, serving as a crucial point of navigation and an obstacle that required innovative solutions for the explorers as they journeyed westward to explore the newly acquired lands after the Louisiana Purchase.
Homestead Act: The Homestead Act, enacted in 1862, was a significant piece of legislation that encouraged westward expansion by providing settlers with the opportunity to claim 160 acres of public land for a small fee, provided they improved and cultivated the land for five years. This act facilitated the migration of many Americans to the western territories, impacting settlement patterns, agriculture, and governance in the region.
Journals of Lewis and Clark: The journals of Lewis and Clark are detailed accounts written by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark during their expedition from 1804 to 1806, exploring the newly acquired western territories of the United States. These journals provide crucial insights into the geography, flora, fauna, and indigenous cultures encountered during their journey, serving as a foundational document in American exploration history.
Louisiana Purchase: The Louisiana Purchase was a landmark acquisition in 1803 where the United States purchased approximately 827,000 square miles of territory from France, effectively doubling the size of the nation. This massive land deal was pivotal in shaping the future of the U.S. and provided significant opportunities for westward expansion, exploration, and economic development.
Map of the Lewis and Clark Expedition: The map of the Lewis and Clark Expedition is a detailed cartographic representation of the journey undertaken by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark from 1804 to 1806, commissioned by President Thomas Jefferson. This map not only illustrates the route taken through the uncharted western territories of the United States but also highlights significant geographic features, indigenous tribes encountered, and notable landmarks. It served as a critical tool in expanding American knowledge of the western frontier and facilitated further exploration and settlement.
Mapping the territory: Mapping the territory refers to the process of charting and understanding a specific geographic area, particularly in terms of its physical features, resources, and pathways. In the context of exploration and discovery, it involves creating detailed maps that can guide future travelers and inform various stakeholders about the land's potential for settlement, trade, or resource extraction.
Meriwether Lewis: Meriwether Lewis was an American explorer, soldier, and politician best known for his role as the leader of the Lewis and Clark expedition from 1804 to 1806. His journey, commissioned by President Thomas Jefferson, aimed to explore the newly acquired Louisiana Territory and find a practical route across the western United States. This expedition not only expanded knowledge of the region but also set the stage for the founding of major settlements in the West.
Nez Perce: The Nez Perce are a Native American tribe originally from the Plateau region of the Pacific Northwest, particularly in what is now northeastern Oregon, northern Idaho, and southeastern Washington. Known for their resistance against U.S. expansion during the 19th century, the Nez Perce played a significant role in American history through their interactions with explorers, settlers, and military forces.
Rocky Mountains: The Rocky Mountains, often referred to as the Rockies, are a major mountain range in North America that stretches from Canada down through the United States to New Mexico. This rugged terrain served as a critical barrier and landmark for early explorers and settlers, shaping their journeys and experiences as they navigated westward across the continent.
Sacagawea: Sacagawea was a Shoshone woman who played a crucial role as a guide and interpreter during the Lewis and Clark Expedition from 1804 to 1806. She was vital for her knowledge of the terrain, languages, and local tribes, which helped the expedition navigate through the uncharted western territories of the United States. Her presence also helped to foster goodwill with Native American tribes encountered along the journey.
Scientific Discoveries: Scientific discoveries are breakthroughs or new understandings achieved through systematic observation, experimentation, and analysis of the natural world. These discoveries often lead to advancements in knowledge, technology, and medicine, significantly impacting societies and environments. They also play a crucial role in exploration, expanding the horizons of what is known about uncharted territories and contributing to fields such as botany, zoology, and geography.
Shoshone: The Shoshone are a Native American tribe that traditionally inhabited areas of the Great Basin, including parts of present-day Idaho, Nevada, and Utah. Known for their nomadic lifestyle, the Shoshone played a significant role in the history of the American West, particularly during interactions with explorers and settlers in the early 19th century.
Trade relations with Native Americans: Trade relations with Native Americans refer to the economic interactions and exchanges between Indigenous tribes and European settlers or explorers, often characterized by the exchange of goods, cultural practices, and mutual dependencies. These relations played a significant role in shaping the dynamics of cooperation and conflict during the westward expansion, particularly during the era of exploration by figures like Lewis and Clark.
Westward Expansion: Westward expansion refers to the 19th-century movement of settlers and immigrants into the western territories of the United States, driven by a belief in Manifest Destiny, the idea that Americans were destined to expand across the continent. This period saw significant migration, land acquisition, and the establishment of new settlements and communities, fundamentally shaping the nation's geography and culture. Key events during this time included various expeditions, treaties, and conflicts with Native American tribes as settlers moved westward.
William Clark: William Clark was an American explorer, soldier, and public administrator best known for his role as the leader of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, which took place from 1804 to 1806. Alongside Meriwether Lewis, he mapped vast portions of the newly acquired Louisiana Territory and established vital relationships with various Native American tribes. His contributions were crucial not only for exploration but also for the later founding of major settlements in the Pacific Northwest.