USA HISTORY

Detailed explanation-1: -Sakakawea’s efforts helped the Corps of Discovery continue on its journey. Crossing the Rocky Mountains was a long, cold, and dangerous struggle. The party had to labor through deep snow, and the food supply got so low that the expedition members almost starved.

Detailed explanation-2: -The excursion lasted over two years: Along the way they confronted harsh weather, unforgiving terrain, treacherous waters, injuries, starvation, disease and both friendly and hostile Native Americans.

Detailed explanation-3: -Although the Corps of Discovery failed to find an all-water route to the Pacific Ocean (for none existed), it nevertheless accomplished many of the goals Jefferson had set.

Detailed explanation-4: -Travel up the Missouri River was difficult and exhausting due to heat, injuries, insects, and the troublesome river itself, with its strong current and many snags. The expedition used a specially built keelboat and two smaller boats, called pirogues, to carry their supplies and equipment, averaging 15 miles per day.

Detailed explanation-5: -They traveled with his list of goals: To establish a trade network across the country, to befriend the American Indians encountered, and to confirm or deny the theory of an all-water Northwest Passage to the Pacific Ocean.