The Complete Journals of Lewis and Clark

The Journals of Lewis and Clark document an expedition across the United States as commissioned by President Jefferson. Shortly after the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, Lewis and Clark set out on a journey to explore and map the newly acquired territory, to find a practical route across the western half of the continent, and to establish an American presence in this territory before Britain and other European powers tried to claim it. The campaign's secondary objectives were to study the area's plants, animal life, and geography, and to establish trade with local Indigenous communities. The Journals recount the observations made by Lewis and Clarke.

Lewis and Clark were the first European Americans to cross the Continental Divide, where they saw Yellowstone, entered into Montana, and produced an official description of these different regions. The expedition established diplomatic relations and trade with at least two dozen indigenous nations. They mapped the topography of the land, designating the location of mountain ranges, rivers, and the many Indigenous communities during the course of their journey. They also learned and recorded much about the language and customs of the Indigenous communities they encountered, and brought back many of their artifacts, including bows, clothing and ceremonial robes.

This case laminate collector's edition includes a Victorian inspired dust-jacket.

Meriwether Lewis (18 August 1774 - 11 October 1809) was an American explorer, soldier, politician, and public administrator, best known for his role as the leader of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Lewis was appointed as Secretary to the President by President Thomas Jefferson in 1801. He resided in the presidential mansion, and frequently conversed with various prominent figures in politics and the arts. During the Lewis and Clarke expedition, he explored the territory of the Louisiana Purchase, established trade with, and sovereignty over the Indigenous communities near the Missouri River, and claimed the Pacific Northwest and Oregon Country for the United States before European nations. Lewis also collected scientific data, and information on Indigenous nations.

William Clarke (1 August 1770 - 1 September 1838) was an American explorer, soldier, Indian agent, and territorial governor. Along with Meriwether Lewis, Clark helped lead the Lewis and Clark Expedition of 1804 to 1806 across the Louisiana Purchase to the Pacific Ocean, and claimed the Pacific Northwest for the United States. Before the expedition, he served in a militia and the United States Army. Afterward, he served in a militia and as governor of the Missouri Territory. From 1822 until his death in 1838, he served as Superintendent of Indian Affairs.