What was the main goal of the Lewis and Clark Expedition?

The primary aim of the Lewis and Clark Expedition was to explore the newly acquired territory of the Louisiana Purchase. Following the acquisition in 1803, President Thomas Jefferson commissioned Meriwether Lewis and William Clark to venture westward to survey this vast expanse of land. This exploration was crucial for understanding the geography, natural resources, and potential for expansion that the territory offered. The expedition provided valuable information about the land, the indigenous peoples inhabiting it, and the diverse ecosystems present, which would play a significant role in the United States' westward expansion.

While the expedition did include mapping routes and gathering data that would benefit trade, the central objective was focused on understanding and documenting the region obtained through the Louisiana Purchase, thus laying the groundwork for future exploration and settlement.