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The main objective of the Lewis and Clark expedition was to explore the newly acquired Louisiana Territory. Following the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, President Thomas Jefferson commissioned Meriwether Lewis and William Clark to lead an expedition to investigate this vast expanse of land. The aim was to gather detailed information about the geography, natural resources, and the indigenous peoples of the territory, which would help in understanding the potential for westward expansion. This mission played a crucial role in expanding the knowledge of the United States' frontier and significantly contributed to the mapping and exploration of the West.

While establishing trade relations with Native Americans, mapping existing territories, and documenting new species were all part of the expedition’s activities, the core purpose hinged on gaining a deeper understanding of the Louisiana Territory itself and its potential for American settlement and use.