The Louis and Clark Expedition

The American Trail, came trail, glazed in blood, defended in blood. Chapter Four, the Lewis and Clark Expedition, 1803, truly acquired Louisiana territory.

Several times larger than the United States was a vast uncharted wilderness. Here's Thomas Jefferson had dreamed of an expedition that would explore it. Now as president, he had the power to commission an expedition. To edit, he chose his private secretary, Captain Meruweather Lewis.

You can't imagine my feelings at this moment. I think I can, sir. I believe I've always pictured myself, taking this trip. I know. To see for the first time, country no other American has ever seen.

To look upon strange animals. There must be many curious animals in that wilderness. Prehistoric ones, maybe? There could be, sir. Yes. Well, now, who will you take with you? I have a couple of men in mind.

There's Billy Clark, Lieutenant Clark, I mean Clark. Yes, he sounds like a good choice. He understands astronomy and his work on maps. Merrow, whether I see this more than just the exploration of Louisiana, I see it as a first attempt to map a route across this entire continent, all the way to the Pacific Ocean.

It may take years sir, but I suppose one would have to follow the Missouri with us a year later Lewis Clark 30 volunteer soldiers and a famous scout in Indian fighter a man named Wetzel Moved up the Missouri into the unknown where Indians there was sickness The going became harder as they fought their way up the mighty Missouri and then

Look at the clock. Yes, Mr. Wetzel. I reckon you can kill Captain Lewis. I'm going back. Going back? A man like that, turning back. Bad for the soldiers. I reckon most of them feel like turning back too.