Lewis:
- Background: Meriwether Lewis was born in 1774 in Virginia. He received a formal education and had an interest in natural history and the sciences. He also served in the military.
- Contributions to the expedition: Lewis was chosen by President Thomas Jefferson to lead the expedition into the new territory. He was responsible for organizing and leading the Corps of Discovery. He documented the plants, animals, and geography they encountered and maintained detailed journals of their journey.
Clark:
- Background: William Clark was born in 1770 in Virginia. He had a military background and was a skilled mapmaker and outdoorsman.
- Contributions to the expedition: Clark co-led the expedition with Lewis. He was responsible for creating maps and making detailed sketches of the landscape. He also played a vital role in establishing diplomatic relations with Native American tribes they encountered.
Sacajawea:
- Background: Sacajawea was born around 1788 in what is now Idaho. She belonged to the Shoshone tribe and was captured by another tribe at a young age. Later, she was sold to a French-Canadian fur trader who became her husband.
- Contributions to the expedition: Sacajawea served as a guide and interpreter for the expedition. Her knowledge of the local geography, flora, and fauna proved invaluable. She also acted as a peacemaker between the expedition and various Native American tribes they encountered.
York:
- Background: York was an enslaved African American and belonged to William Clark. He grew up with Clark and shared in his adventures from a young age.
- Contributions to the expedition: York played a crucial role in the expedition as a skilled hunter and strong laborer. He helped build relationships with Native American tribes and was admired for his physical strength and abilities.
Reflection Question:
Sending explorers into the new territory of the United States was important for several reasons. Firstly, it allowed for the exploration and mapping of unknown lands, which contributed to expanding geographical knowledge. Additionally, sending explorers helped to establish American claims to the newly acquired territory, as well as explore potential resources and trade routes. Explorers also played a crucial role in establishing diplomatic relations with Native American tribes and gathering valuable information about the people, their cultures, and the land. Finally, exploring the new territory opened up opportunities for westward expansion, settlement, and economic development.