The Lewis and Clark Expedition was a journey undertaken by explorers Meriwether Lewis and William Clark from 1804 to 1806. Commissioned by President Thomas Jefferson, the expedition aimed to explore the newly acquired Louisiana Territory and find a route to the Pacific Ocean. The team traveled over 8,000 miles, mapping the land and documenting the plants, animals, and Native American tribes they encountered. The expedition began in St. Louis, Missouri, and followed the Missouri River before reaching the Columbia River in present-day Oregon. Along the way, they faced numerous challenges, including harsh weather, difficult terrain, and interactions with various Native American groups. Their journey provided valuable information about the western United States and helped pave the way for future exploration and settlement.