Final answer:
The Palliser Expedition aimed to assess the settlement potential of western Canada, a pivotal move for future agricultural expansion and economic development in the region.
Step-by-step explanation:
The purpose of the Palliser Expedition in 1857 was c) assess the settlement potential of western Canada. This expedition was named after its leader, John Palliser, and was tasked with exploring the vast territory west of Ontario to evaluate its suitability for agriculture and to survey the land for possible future settlements. The findings from this expedition helped to inform decisions about the settlement and development of the Canadian prairies, and were significant for the subsequent agricultural expansion and economic development of the region.