The Louisiana Purchase was a land deal between the United States and France in 1803, in which the U.S. acquired approximately 827,000 square miles of land west of the Mississippi River for $15 million. This territory encompassed much of the central region of what is now the United States, including parts of 15 current U.S. states. As a result of this acquisition, the U.S. gained control of several natural features that helped to shape the development and expansion of the country. Here are three natural features that the Louisiana Purchase gave the United States:
The Mississippi River: The Louisiana Purchase gave the United States control of the Mississippi River, which is one of the most important waterways in the country. The river provided a vital transportation route for goods and people, as well as access to the Gulf of Mexico. The Mississippi River also played a significant role in the expansion of the United States, as pioneers used it to explore and settle the western frontier.
The Great Plains: The Louisiana Purchase included a large portion of the Great Plains, which are a vast expanse of grasslands that stretch from the Rocky Mountains to the Mississippi River. The Great Plains are home to a wide range of wildlife, including bison, pronghorn antelope, and prairie dogs, and support important industries such as agriculture and energy production. The Great Plains also played a significant role in the westward expansion of the United States, as settlers moved into the region in search of new opportunities.
The Rocky Mountains: The Louisiana Purchase also included parts of the Rocky Mountains, which are a major mountain range that extends more than 3,000 miles from Canada to Mexico. The Rocky Mountains are home to several national parks and wilderness areas, and provide important habitat for a wide range of wildlife, including grizzly bears, bighorn sheep, and mountain lions. The Rocky Mountains also played a significant role in the westward expansion of the United States, as pioneers followed mountain passes and trails to reach the western frontier.