2. Accomplishments Led the first United States expedition to the Pacific Coast Made important strides in mapping U.S. interior Studied plants and animals Discovered how region could be used economically Joined by Sacagawea (who acted as their guide)
3. Background and History Selected by Thomas Jefferson to explore the Louisiana Purchase U.S. mint made silver medals with an image of Jefferson that had a message of friendship and peace to give to Indians Showed U.S. sovereignty Planned to bring weapons to show military force Brought flags, medicine, and gifts
4. Importance Mapped and established presence For legal claim of land Established diplomatic relations and trade with indigenous people Did not find Northwest Passage