The Why of Lewis and Clark

Meriwether Lewis, William Clark, and the Corps of Discovery helped map the northwest and documented many plant and animal species. During two years of rough travel in the wilderness they navigated river rapids, crossed rugged mountains, and survived harrowing escapes from grizzly bears.

The Lewis and Clark Expedition is a great adventure story and a cherished legend of American history. But just why did President Thomas Jefferson send them to the Pacific Ocean? There were a number of reasons, and the official one might surprise you.

Image: Engraving of Meriwether Lewis in his expedition reglalia courtesy of the New York Public Library Digital Collections.