Meriwether Lewis

Meriwether Lewis was an American explorer, soldier, and public administrator best known for his role as the leader of the Lewis and Clark Expedition from 1804 to 1806. Born on August 18, 1774, in Virginia, Lewis grew up in a family that valued adventure and the great outdoors. His early experiences in the wilderness and his education under George Washington’s influence nurtured his skills in navigation and leadership, making him an ideal choice to explore the vast territories acquired in the Louisiana Purchase. Partnering with William Clark, Lewis embarked on a journey that would chart new paths and bring invaluable knowledge about the land, its inhabitants, and its resources back to the burgeoning nation.

After the expedition, Lewis served as governor of the Louisiana Territory, where he faced numerous challenges and the complexities of frontier governance. Sadly, his life was cut short when he died under mysterious circumstances in 1809. Despite his untimely end, the journals and maps that Lewis created during his travels offer a captivating glimpse into early American exploration. If you're curious about the adventures and discoveries of Meriwether Lewis, dive into his works available in this app, where you can trace the footsteps of this remarkable figure in history.

The Journal of Lewis and Clarke (1840)

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Meriwether Lewis



"The expedition of Messrs. Lewis and Clarke, for exploring the river Missouri, and the best communication from that to the Pacific Ocea…