Looking Back at Lewis and Clark
The article reflects on the historical significance of the Lewis and Clark expedition across the continent. It discusses the expedition's impact on American mythology and the skepticism surrounding its importance. The piece also highlights earlier explorations and the motivations behind Jefferson's decision to send Lewis and Clark on their journey.
- ▪The Lewis and Clark expedition is often romanticized in American history as a significant achievement.
- ▪Critics, like Henry Adams, have questioned the expedition's true value compared to other advancements in civilization.
- ▪Jefferson's decision to send Lewis and Clark was influenced by earlier explorations, including that of Scottish fur trader Alexander Mackenzie.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
BooksLooking Back at Lewis and ClarkThe explorers’ crossing of the continent is America’s most famous camping trip. What was it all for?By Caleb CrainMay 25, 2026In the national mythology, the expedition belongs to the morning of the story—back when the waterfalls hadn’t been choked by dams and there were still bands of Native Americans in the Rockies who had never seen a white person.Illustration by Ruby FressonSave this storySave this storySave this storySave this storyIf Meriwether Lewis and William Clark hadn’t gone up the Missouri River in 1804 and then down the lower Columbia River in 1805, there might today be less United States and more Canada. Lately, I have been having trouble imagining how that could be seen as a bad thing.Lewis and Clark have long had their skeptics.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at The New Yorker.
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