A Vast New Territory

The treaty granted the United States sovereignty over the lands that stretched from the Rocky Mountains to the port of New Orleans. The treaty also made the Louisiana territory part of the United States and subject to its laws, meaning that it would not be ruled as a separate colony. The issue of slavery was not addressed in the treaty.

This map shows the extent of the United States after the Louisiana Purchase and indicates the locations of the peoples who already lived there, as well as other European claims to sovereignty. Note that the United States did not yet stretch from "sea to shining sea.” All or part of 15 states were eventually formed from the Louisiana Purchase.

"Let the Land rejoice, for you have bought Louisiana for a Song."

– General Horatio Gates to Jefferson, July 18, 1803

Looking at the map and considering what you have learned from the video, why was the Louisiana Purchase such an important step in the development of the U.S.? Jot down your ideas.

Map of US in early 1800s showing extent of Louisiana Purchase

Take Notes

Why was the Louisiana Purchase such an important step in the development of the U.S.?