Dubbed the “Corps of Discovery” by President Thomas Jefferson, the expedition, over the next two years, would travel over 8,000 miles into the wilds of the Pacific Northwest and back. Along the way it would chart the course of Manifest Destiny, transforming the continent of North America forever.
Q. How did the presence of Sacagawea benefit the Corps of Discovery?
She could identify roots, plants and berries that were either edible or medicinal. Sacagawea’s memories of Shoshone trails led to Clark’s characterization of her as his “pilot.” She helped navigate the Corps through a mountain pass—today’s Bozeman Pass in Montana—to the Yellowstone River.
Q. What was Sacagawea’s impact?
So why is Sacagawea an important American to know? She was instrumental in the Lewis & Clark Expedition as a guide as they explored the western lands of the United States. Her presence as a woman helped dispel notions to the Native tribes that they were coming to conquer and confirmed the peacefulness of their mission.
Q. What was the significance of Sacagawea’s help?
While accompanying the famous Lewis and Clark Expedition (1804–06), Sacagawea served as an interpreter. She also provided significant assistance by searching for edible plants and making moccasins and clothing.
Q. What tribe was Sacagawea with?
Sacagawea was born circa 1788 in what is now the state of Idaho. When she was approximately 12 years old, Sacagawea was captured by an enemy tribe, the Hidatsa, and taken from her Lemhi Shoshone people to the Hidatsa villages near present-day Bismarck, North Dakota.
Q. Is there a Sacagawea day?
Although some oral narratives say she lived much longer, Sacagawea Day is marked on December 20, giving honor to the young Shoshone woman who crossed the continent to aid the Corps of Discovery Expedition.
Q. What age did Sacagawea get married?
Sacagawea was between the ages of 12 and 20 when she was ‘married’ to Toussaint Charbonneau.
