Background
Lewis and Clark’s expedition across the Mississippi River was a monumental moment for American exploration. It symbolized the start of a new era in American discovery and discovery of the unknown. The expedition was led by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark and was commissioned by President Thomas Jefferson in 1804. Their expedition was the first American effort to cross the Mississippi River and eventually reach the Pacific Ocean further west. While initially sent to explore the region’s resources and make peace with its Native American inhabitants, the mission quickly took on a greater historical importance.
Preparation
The pair were well aware of the challenges that they were likely to face on the expedition and made sure to prepare adequately. As well as stocking up on essential supplies, they took with them a team of men, including famous frontiersman Daniel Boone and expert hunters, as well as a trusted Shoshone interpreter by the name of Sacagawea.
The preparation for the journey did not also only focus on supplies. Months of planning also went into developing the best possible routes for the imminent journey. Taking on board certain theories and advice from traders, trappers and Native Americans already in the region, the team was able to best figure out their route upand across the big river.
Crossing the Mississippi
After months of preparation and anticipation, the expedition arrived at the edge of the Mississippi River in 1805. At such a point of turbulence in the river, travelling across it had never been attempted before. With a sheer determination and daring, the team used their now-infamous giant raft to attempt the crossing.
The raft, measuring 44 feet long and 15 feet wide, was large enough to be able to ferry the men, their supplies and whatever new finds they had made during their travels rhythmically along the river. Striking downstream, the team embarked on a journey which made heroes out of the individuals of the expedition.
Conflict with Native Americans
Whilst large parts of the expedition went without incident, there were certain moments as the team ventured upstream when it felt like their journey could be halted by Native Americans in the region.
By using Sacagawea and her translator skills, the team was able to communicate with local Native American tribes living in the area and secure nearby passage. Her affections and understanding of the local dialects between tribes was essential to allow the team to continue their voyage.
Legacy
Despite adversity on their mission, the expedition was generally successful. Upon their return to Washington they not only brought news of reaching the mouth of the Columbia River and reaching the Pacific Ocean, but also detailed maps, extensive journals and natural specimens which they had picked up while away.
The journey made with the help of the giant raft across the Mississippi River secured the team’s place in American history as pioneering figures in exploration. The success of the mission made Lewis and Clark household names in the United States and unofficially united it as a nation.
Historical Impact
The expedition by Lewis and Clark had a lasting impact in America. By relaying information on rivers, mountains, landforms and the native populations that they encountered along the way, the expedition not only laid the foundation for the westward expansion of the country, but also helped to develop and promote global commerce and trade between North America and the Far East.
The accomplishment of their mission, and the first successful crossing of the Mississippi River, allowed the US to open up new territories and engage in diplomatic relations with tribes they had not come into contact with before. This allowed the US to expand their influence westwards of the Mississippi River and strengthened their relationship with the Native American tribes in the region. In addition to this, the compilation of various resources discovered on the expedition helped to better understand the land and its geography.
The expedition was also important in terms of navigational developments. Before the journey, maps were outdated and not very reliable. With the help of Lewis and Clark’s expedition, more accurate maps were drawn up which highlighted the trails, rivers and other geographical features of the area including the Mississippi River.
This enabled other expeditions to occur in the region with increased safety. The ability to cross the river and take different routes for the same journey was a major benefit for other researchers, scientists and explorers.
Pioneering Role
The expedition led by Lewis and Clark was one of the first of its kind in America. It’s a testimony to the bravery, courage and resilience of the team who faced numerous potential risks to travel across the Mississippi River and to the Pacific. Their navigation and navigation through the unknown was essential in opening up America’s westward expansion.
By setting out on the mission, the collection of data, maps and resources were able to better understand the geography of the land, and also help shape diplomatic relations with the Native American tribes. This pioneering attitude is highly commended by modern day Americans, who look back on the journey with admiration and admiration of the individuals that took part in the expedition.
Memorials
The success of the mission has earned the pair numerous awards and recognitions. To celebrate the significance of their journey, memorials have been erected in several states along the route of their expedition. In states such as North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska and Iowa, there are Lewis & Clark interpretive trails, monuments, interpretive centers, Lewis and Clark interpretive parks, educational programs and numerous other memorials. These memorials serve as a reminder of the importance of the expedition, and serve as a reminder that exploration and discovery are essential to our nation’s development.
Popular Culture
The journey of Lewis and Clark has had a lasting impact on popular culture as well. Numerous books, paintings and film adaptions have featured the expedition, reinforcing the importance of the unique expedition for a diverse range of audiences. Musical groups have also been inspired by their incredible journey and continue to reproduce the music and ideas of the expedition today.
The pair have also been celebrated in museums, interacting exhibits and other activities that highlight the significance of the expedition and its achievements. Such impact has helped to further popularize Lewis and Clark and have captured the imaginations of people from a wide variety of backgrounds.
Costuming and Reenactments
Lewis and Clark’s mission has also been celebrated through costuming and reenactments. Reenactments of the journey occur throughout the United States in historical encampments, state parks and other events. Many people dress up in familiar replica costumes to remember and pay tribute to the story of the expedition. Visitors can often visit historical sites, look at replicas and listen to lectures, demonstrations and music to learn more about the mission.
Not only can visitors take part in these reenactments and visit historical sites, they can also partake in educational activities, such as scavenger hunts, crafting and hand-on activities. Through such activities, visitors are able to learn about the expedition and its importance to the United States.
Commemoration in Schools
In addition to costuming and reenactments, the journey of Lewis and Clark has been commemorated in schools. School children learn about the expedition as part of their American History class. As well as learning about the expedition and its accomplishments, children are also taught about differences in people and cultures, social sciences and geography through the study of Lewis and Clark and the journey across the Mississippi River.
Commemorations in school and educational activities have helped to keep the legacy and explore the complexities of the expedition alive. These commemorations, and the expedition itself, help to instill a sense of wonder and pride of American courage and ambition across the country.
