{"id":9981,"date":"2023-10-04T09:25:09","date_gmt":"2023-10-04T08:25:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.aboutriver.com\/?p=9981"},"modified":"2023-10-04T09:25:09","modified_gmt":"2023-10-04T08:25:09","slug":"how-did-lewis-and-clark-get-across-the-mississippi-river","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.aboutriver.com\/how-did-lewis-and-clark-get-across-the-mississippi-river\/","title":{"rendered":"How Did Lewis And Clark Get Across The Mississippi River"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Background<\/h2>\n

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.<\/p>\n

Preparation<\/h2>\n

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.
\nThe 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.<\/p>\n

Crossing the Mississippi<\/h2>\n

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.
\nThe 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.<\/p>\n

Conflict with Native Americans<\/h2>\n

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.
\nBy 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.<\/p>\n

Legacy<\/h2>\n