How did Lewis and Clark's journey help people come to the West?

The Lewis and Clark expedition provided a better perception of the geography of the Northwest and the production of the first accurate maps of the area. During the journey, Lewis and Clark prepared approximately 140 maps. This enabled the United States to lay claim to the Oregon region. This claim helped make possible the great pioneer movement that settled the West in the mid-1800's. Also, during the journey, the expedition documented over 122 species of animals and approximately 178 plants. This helped pioneers locate animals that could be used for food or furs for warmth and the identification of plants helped pioneers learn which were edible and which were poisonous.

The Lewis and Clark Expedition did establish friendly relations with some of the Native American tribes. For the most part, encounters between the three dozen Indian tribes and the expedition were successful. This was helpful for awhile, but relations became strained as more and more pioneers moved onto Native American territory.