The purpose of the Lewis and Clark Expedition was to find a route to the Pacific Ocean.

The Lewis and Clark Expedition, officially known as the Corps of Discovery Expedition, was commissioned by President Thomas Jefferson in 1804 after the United States acquired the Louisiana Territory. The primary goal was to explore the newly acquired land and find a practical route to the Pacific Ocean. Led by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, the expedition aimed to gather scientific information, document the geography, flora, and fauna, and establish an American presence in the region. The journey lasted until 1806, covering over 8,000 miles and resulting in invaluable maps and knowledge about the western territories, as well as fostering relations with Native American tribes.