...In what ways did the Louisiana Purchase and the Lewis and Clark Expedition have an impact on westward expansion and how did Jefferson's message to Congress (1803) show his vision for the new republic? The reasons why the Louisiana Purchase and the Lewis Clark Expedition had an impact on the westward expansion, including the reasons why Thomas Jefferson arranged the journey, a summary of his vision for the new republic (Jefferson’s Secret Message) and the outcome of his vision as it relates to the Westward Expansion. “The portion of their country most important for us is exactly that which they do not inhabit. Their settlements are not on the Mississippi, but in the interior country. They have lately shown a desire to become agricultural; and this leads to the desire of buying implements and comforts. In the strengthening and gratifying of these wants, I see the only prospect of planting on the Mississippi itself, the means of its own safety. Duty has required me to submit these views to the judgment of the Legislature; but as their disclosure might embarrass and defeat their effect, they are committed to the special confidence of the two Houses.” (Jefferson, 1803) Taken from Thomas Jefferson’s Secret Message to Congress of 1803. This excerpt introduces the vision of Thomas...
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