Why Did the Lewis and Clark Expedition Cross North America

Meriwether Lewis and William Clark and the Corps of Discovery  crossed the North American continent from 1804 to 1806, traveling from St. Louis, Missouri to the Pacific Ocean and back. The explorers kept journals and drew maps during their voyage, and their observations greatly increased the available information about the North American continent. Before they crossed the continent there were theories about what lay in the West, and most of them made little sense. Even the president at the time, Thomas Jefferson, was inclined to believe some fanciful legends about the mysterious regions no white Americans had seen. The journey of the Corps of Discovery was a carefully planned venture of the United States government, and it was not conducted simply for adventure. So why why did Lewis and Clark make their epic journey? In the political atmosphere of 1804, President Thomas Jefferson offered a practical reason that ensured Congress would appropriate funds for the expedition. But Jefferson also had several other reasons, ranging from purely scientific to a desire to thwart European nations from colonizing the western frontier of America. Earliest Idea For An Expedition Thomas Jefferson, the man who conceived of the expedition, was first interested in having men cross the North American continent as early as 1792, nearly a decade before he became president. He urged the American Philosophical Society, based in Philadelphia, to finance an expedition to explore the vast spaces of the West. But the plan did not materialize. In the summer of 1802, Jefferson, who had been president for a year, received a copy of a fascinating book written by Alexander MacKenzie, a Scottish explorer who had traveled across Canada to the Pacific Ocean and back. At his home at Monticello, Jefferson read MacKenzies account of his travels, sharing the book with his personal secretary, a young army veteran named Meriwether Lewis. The two men apparently took the voyage of MacKenzie as something of a challenge. Jefferson resolved that an American expedition should also explore the Northwest. The Official Reason: Commerce and Trade Jefferson believed that an expedition to the Pacific could only be properly funded and sponsored by the US government. To obtain the funds from Congress, Jefferson had to present a practical reason for sending explorers into the wilderness. It was also important to establish that the expedition was not setting out to provoke war with the Indian tribes found in the western wilderness. And it was also not setting out to claim territory. Trapping animals for their furs was a lucrative business at the time,  and Americans such as John Jacob Astor were building great fortunes based on the fur trade. And Jefferson knew that the British held a virtual monopoly on the fur trade in the Northwest. And as Jefferson felt that the US Constitution gave him the power to promote trade, he asked for an appropriation from Congress on those grounds. The proposal was that men exploring the Northwest would be seeking out opportunities where Americans could trap for furs or trade with friendly Indians. Jefferson requested an appropriation of $2,500 from the Congress. There was some skepticism expressed in Congress, but the money was provided. The Expedition Was Also for Science Jefferson appointed Meriwether Lewis, his personal secretary, to command the expedition. At Monticello, Jefferson had been teaching Lewis what he could about science. Jefferson also sent Lewis to Philadelphia for tutoring from scientific friends of Jeffersons, including Dr. Benjamin Rush. While in Philadelphia, Lewis received tutoring in several other subjects Jefferson thought would be useful. A noted surveyor, Andrew Ellicott, taught Lewis to take measurements with a sextant and octant. Lewis would use the navigational instruments to plot and record his geographic positions while on the journey. Lewis also received some tutoring in identifying plants, as one of the duties assigned to him by Jefferson would be to record the trees and plants growing in the west. Likewise, Lewis was taught some zoology to help him accurately describe and classify any previously unknown animal species which were rumored to roam the great plains and mountains of the west. The Issue of Conquest Lewis picked his former colleague in the US Army, William Clark, to help command the expedition because of Clarks known reputation as an Indian fighter. Yet Lewis had also been cautioned not to engage in combat with Indians, but to withdraw if violently challenged. Careful thought was given to the size of the expedition. Originally it was thought that a small group of men would have a better chance of success, but they might be too vulnerable to potentially hostile Indians. It was feared a larger group might be seen as provocative. The Corps of Discovery, as the men of the expedition would eventually be known, ultimately consisted of 27 volunteers recruited from US Army outposts along the Ohio River. Friendly engagement with Indians was a high priority of the expedition. Money was allocated for Indian gifts, which were medals and useful items such as cooking implements that could be given to Indians the men would meet on the way west. Lewis and Clark mostly avoided conflicts with Indians. And a Native American woman, Sacagawea, traveled with the expedition as an interpreter. While the expedition was never intended to start settlements in any of the area traversed, Jefferson was well aware that ships from other nations, including Britain and Russia, had already landed in the Pacific Northwest. Its probable that Jefferson and other Americans at the time may have feared that other nations would begin settling the Pacific coast just as the English, the Dutch, and the Spanish had settled the Atlantic coast of North America. So one unstated purpose of the expedition was to survey the area and thus provide knowledge that could be useful to later Americans who would travel west. The Exploration of the Louisiana Purchase It is often said that the purpose of the Lewis and Clark Expedition was to explore the Louisiana Purchase, the vast land purchase that doubled the size of the United States. In fact, the expedition had been planned and Jefferson was intent on it proceeding before the United States had any expectation of purchasing land from France. Jefferson and Meriwether Lewis had been actively planning for the expedition in 1802 and early 1803, and the word that Napoleon wished to sell Frances holdings in North American did not reach the United States until July 1803. Jefferson wrote at the time that the planned expedition would now be even more useful, as it would provide a survey of some of the new area now belonging to the United States. But the expedition was not originally conceived as a way to survey the Louisiana Purchase. Results of the Expedition The Lewis and Clark Expedition was considered a great success, and it did meet its official purpose, as it helped foster an American fur trade. And it also met the other various goals, especially by increasing scientific knowledge and providing more reliable maps. And the Lewis and Clark Expedition also strengthened a United States claim to the Oregon Territory, so the expedition did ultimately lead toward the settlement of the west.

Axonal Death And Alzheimer s Disease - 1477 Words

Introduction Axonal death is a main element in many neurodegenerative diseases. It has been observed in many neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. Axon degeneration does not necessarily have to involve the typical apoptotic pathway regardless of the morphological similarities to cells undergoing apoptosis. Yang et al. focused on axonal death in traumatic injury because it has been shown to be independent of the necroptotic pathway. This was discovered since treatment with necroptosis inhibitors did not protect axons. To reiterate, axonal death in traumatic injury has commonalities with other diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. If there is a greater understanding for the†¦show more content†¦Axonal degeneration does have a significant impact on many neurodegenerative diseases. Their research found that this particular pathway, Sarm1-MAPK pathway, may be a common pathway for differe nt types of axonal degeneration, not just from traumatic injury. If the main pathway or underlying mechanism that drives these diseases is uncovered and understood, then this can lead to creating different methods to protect synapses and axons in these diseases. Other research can focus on trying to inhibit the Sarm1-MAPK pathway, or at least inhibit distinct components within it. Their research is pertinent to finding a cure or possible treatments for many of these diseases. This will have multiple implications on society, medicine, and the quality of life for many people suffering with the many debilitating symptoms associated with these diseases. Experimental System In order to examine axons undergoing degeneration after traumatic injury, they observed axons of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) in mouse optic nerves. 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Culture of Portugal Free Essays

The country of Portugal has many rich cultural facets in food, music and sports. Situated on the west coast of the Iberian Peninsula that it shares with Spain, Portugal’s culture was shaped by the influences from the Latin, Visigoth and Muslim cultures. Many men in Portugal go into the Atlantic to catch fish while the women are homebound doing chores like house work or cleaning the fish. We will write a custom essay sample on Culture of Portugal or any similar topic only for you Order Now The men are the bread winners while the women are the housewives who take care of the home. The kids are free to make their own decisions outside of their home. It is mandatory for children to go to school until 6th grade but after that they are free to choose to carry on in school or help out in the working society. Even though the children have freedom outside their homes, it is within the culture for children to not leave the house until married and have their own children because of the strong family ties. Divorce was not an option in Portugal for many years. After the revolution of 1974, divorce was finally allowed into the Portuguese culture dominated by the Roman Catholic religion. Portugal has been known to be a very homogenous society over the years with mainly one language and one religion, Portuguese and Roman Catholic respectively. The Do’s and Don’ts of the Portuguese Culture are quite simple but different from the way of life that we know here in the States. For example: each time you meet someone new, you take time to get to know them; do not use first names unless you know them very well, the Portuguese have a lot of respect for academic titles for doctors and engineers and are addressed accordingly; upon meeting for the first time, the Portuguese can be quite reserved and formal if they do not know you well; don’t write in red because it is considered rude; if invited to someone’s house, do bring flowers; do not stretch in public because it is also rude; tip taxis 10% on each ride and by just using common sense and smiling at all times you will not go far wrong. The food of Portugal Varies by the region you visit. In the north, there is caldo verde and sardines. Caldo verde is a type of kale potato soup flavored with a spicy sausage. This soup is eaten with broa, which is a grainy corn bread with thick crust. The traditional wine that goes with this food in this region would be the vinho verde. This is a young wine made from grapes that grow on arbors that often serve as property markers. In the northeastern region a popular dish is the Tras o Montes, which is fresh and cured pork used in many meals. A stew consisted of mixed meats and vegetables called cozida a portuguesa originated in this region has become a national dish. In central Portugal Cheeses are a very important part of the meal and fish like octopus, squid and eel. And finally in the south, a soup called gazpacho with bread and smoked pork. Overall as a nation, Bacalhau, or codfish, has been the most popular fish sine the 15th century. The Bacalhau croquettes are popular appetizers and for dessert cinnamon on top of rice pudding. Port wine which is the symbol of the city Porto, is a major export and is only used in rural households during ceremonial occasions or offered to celebrated guests. The annual killing and preserving of the pig is an important ceremony in the culture of Portugal. The event which last two days, usually occurs in late December or January. This process involves making sausage, smoking ham and salting other parts of the pig, including the stomach area. On the first day of this celebration called Sarrabulho, the noon meal consists of rice, innards and the blood of the pig. The country of Portugal observes fourteen holidays throughout the calendar year. The major days include the following: Freedom day (25th April), day that Portugal went from a dictatorship to a democracy in 1974; Portugal day (10th June), celebrates 16th century epic poem that brought fame and fortune to Portugal; Assumption (15th August), day Mary was taken into heaven; restoration of independence (1st December), celebrates the end of the Iberian Union. Many of their holidays fall are shared and fall on the same days as the US holidays like new years day, Good Friday, Easter, Labor Day and Christmas day. Clothing is a huge essential aspect of the culture in Portugal. The people of Portugal are very particular about their clothing attire and dressing styles. Like in many countries clothing ranges from the modern to traditional dressing patterns. The clothing industry plays a very important role in the economy of the country. The clothing ranges from the urban to the rural region. Usually the city people are extremely well dressed. They bear the resemblance of the western influence with western pattern clothing. In the rural areas, clothing is in tune with the traditional pattern of dressing. Men’s traditional outfits include stocking caps, berets that are teamed with trousers and baggy shirts. Women wear black shawls and long dresses. Black or dark colors are usually worn for carrying out daily chores, however brightly hued clothing is usually worn on special occasions. The music of Portugal was influenced by Ancient Rome’s traditions. The genres music include classical to popular. The history of the music can be divided into music production from the middle Ages, Renaissance, Baroque, Classical, and Romantic and Modern times. The music in Portugal offers a rich history and privileged geographical location which despite its European roots, reflects the intercontinental interactions with Portuguese discoveries. Despite all the rich culture in music, Portugal and more specifically the city of Lisbon is better known for the birth place of Fado. Fado is a melancholy urban genre of music that was believed to date back to the 15th century when it was believed that women would cry for the longing of their husbands who sailed the seas. Even though Arabs left the region in the 13th century, the instruments like the Portuguese guitar have Arabic imprints that are heavily used in the singing of Fado. In the year 1939, Fado became an international popular genre with Amalia Rodrigues. A Singer and actress, she made stylistic adjustments to Fado that have made her the most influential fadista of all time. Amalia Rodrigues revived the Fado tradition. She was followed by many new, young musicians who have contributed to the social/political revival of the music adapting and blending it with new trends. The new artists walk a fine line of adapting and carrying the old traditions while trying to bring in a new audience. Portugal takes a huge liking to the most popular sport in the world, football. Three major clubs that come out of Portugal are Sporting and Benfica both in Lisbon; and FC Porto based in Porto. The big three as they are known in Portugal not only compete in football but also in basketball, handball, futsal and volleyball. The Portuguese national team is one of the finest in Europe and the world and it evokes tremendous passion on its people. In studies it was proven that during the days of the National team games held throughout Portugal while hosting the Euro 2004 Championships, heart attacks increased by 46% for males with cardiovascular problems. With past players like Eusebio, Figo and now Christiano Ronaldo, Portugal has produced some of the best world class players in the game. Bullfighting is another popular sport. Unlike their Spanish compatriots, the Portuguese do not kill the bulls in the ring. The bullfighters come out usually dressed in an 18th century style coat and three-cornered hat. The horns of the bull are sheathed to protect the horse. The bullfighter, which is always on the horse, is followed by Forcados who are young men that take on the bull bare handed. And finally since Portugal is situated along the Atlantic Ocean, it is a popular destination for aquatic activities. It has become over the years a center for the activities the long seacoast and mild climate make for popular sailing, surfboarding and scuba diving. From the early 1990’s the Portuguese entrepreneurs along with the tourist board have heavily promoted the coastline for these popular sports and have been a revelation for the economy. From it’s vast array of food, including the ever so popular Bacalhau, to it’s most cherished music in Fado; Portugal has a unique mixture of cultural brilliance that’s sets it apart from it’s neighbor Spain and, for that matter, any country in Europe. With its pleasant climate along the coastline, it is not a surprise that they are hosts to many aquatic activities and produce a fine wine in Port. With Football being the hands down most popular sport in the country that drives the passion of the people, there is also an uprising of other sports through the big three clubs (Sporting, Benfica and Porto). Most importantly, family values and the cultures they create for the country of Portugal is still the core to most of the society who continue to live and have deep roots in their society modeled by their Catholic faith. References http://www.everyculture.com/No-Sa/Portugal.html https://www.britannica.com/place/Portugal http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portugal How to cite Culture of Portugal, Essay examples

Factors in the Rise of Hitler Essay Example For Students

Factors in the Rise of Hitler Essay The rise of Adolph Hitler contained many key factors that allowed him to become the powerful dictator of Germany that we remember him as today. These factors range from the mindsets of the people around him to the economical factors of the day. Without each of these important conditions, Hitler’s rise to power might have been a much slower, or for that matter, inexistent, process. The first major factor was that Germany was experiencing a Great Depression, much like the situation in the United States. The people of the country were at a great low in their morale, and they were grasping for someone or something to make their lives a little bit better. That someone ended up being Hitler. He rose in popularity as he gave bread to the hungry, and made the people happier with his speeches about how the Germans were the best people on earth. Next, came the great amount of propaganda that Hitler fed to the German people. Since they were so fond of him for helping them during the Depression, they hung on every word he said, and they truly believed him when he made statements indicating that different peoples, especially Jews, were the ones who were making their lives as bad as they were. This propaganda made the people join in Hitler’s cause, and completely support him. These supporters were the ones that made Hitler become so strong. They became his soldiers, his strategists, and his suppliers. Without their initial support, his actions might have been deemed cruel and unnecessary, and the people of Germany could have stopped his work before it had gone very far. Of all of these factors, the most crucial to Hitler’s rise was the first element that, in turn, led to the other factors- the Great Depression. Without that situation, the German people could have possibly been more judgmental and not have accepted, as their leader, the first person to help them. The Depression gave these people mindsets that ultimately allowed their complete and total control by one man, Adolph Hitler. Bibliography: