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In secret communication to Congress, President Thomas Jefferson seeks authorization for the expedition. This is the first official exploration of unknown spaces undertaken by the United State Government. Learn more here,,,
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News of the Louisiana Purchase is announced. For $15 million, Jefferson more than doubles the size of the United States. Learn more here....
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Lewis and Clark attend ceremonies in St. Louis formally transferring Louisiana Territory from France to the United States. Learn more here...
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The Expedition sets off from Camp Dubois. Learn more here...
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North of what is now Bismarck, North Dakota, the Corps of Discovery reaches the earth-lodge villiages of the Mandan and Hidatsas. Learn more here...
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They proceed into what is now Montana-farther west than any white man had ever gone on the Missouri. They are astounded by the wildlife. Learn more here...
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The expedition reaches the Three Forks of the Missouri, which the captains name the Gallatin ( after Secretary of the Treasury), the Madison (after Secretary of State), and the Jefferson (after President Thomas Jefferson). Learn more here...
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Their last day as the Corps of Discovery. They reach St. Louis. Having been gone nearly two and a half years. Learn more here...
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Traveling on his way home from St. Louis to Washington, Lewis takes his own life. Learn more here....
