Many historians view the Louisiana Purchase as Thomas Jefferson’s greatest achievement as president. After gaining the Louisiana Territory from France, Jefferson sent the Corps of Discovery to explore and report on the nation’s recent acquisition. In addition to describing the territory itself, the group also interacted with and took note of the different Native American tribes that they encountered.
Read through the excerpt from Meriwether Lewis and William Clark’s journals from the Corps of Discovery’s journey (For the Record, 180-186). What does this selection reveal to us about the ways of life of Indians living in the Louisiana territory? What can we learn about early nineteenth century Americans and their perceptions of Native Americans from the notes left behind by Lewis and Clark? (Think, for example, about the observations they chose to record. What seemed important to them and why? What seems to be missing from their accounts?)
Responses should be at least 150 words minimum. Grammar/mechanics matter. Anytime you quote or paraphrase closely, make sure to include an in-text citation. Make sure to verify that you uploaded the correct assignment and that your file was properly uploaded. Instructors are not responsible for incorrect files or files that failed to upload. Failure to load proper files or files that won’t open properly will receive a zero grade. Files should be uniquely your own. If a file looks like another student’s file, a zero grade will be given to both files. It is difficult to work with and analyze primary sources without their surrounding historical context. Students who do well on these assignments tend to have read the corresponding chapter in America before completion of a weekly assignment.
