Results of the purchase
- The Louisiana Purchase consisted of 2,142,417 sq kilometers.
- Geographically doubled the size of America.
- First major expansion of America, and opened the door to more expansion possibilities such as the Mexican Cession and the Annexation of Texas.
- The Lewis and Clark expedition served as the first step toward settlement in the new land.
- Expedition was a way for Americans to claim this territory and truly begin to see it as their possession.
- New land led to property for each man and promoted individualism under a unified country.
- Expansion minimized government control as land ownership for individuals promoted liberty.
Jefferson's vision for an Empire of Liberty was achieved through the Louisiana Purchase (and the Lewis and Clark Expedition following it) which stood as an example for nations worldwide to establish themselves and grow through the prosperity of their free people. Jefferson became a historic icon through his contribution of the purchase and the expedition for American expansion and development.