On October 20, 1803, the Senate ratified the Louisiana Purchase Treaty by a vote of twenty-four to seven. The agreement, which provided for the purchase of the western half of the Mississippi River basin from France at a price of $15 million, or approximately four cents per acre, doubled the size of the country and paved the way for westward expansion beyond the Mississippi.

Based on the excerpt, which of the following statements can be inferred about the effect the Louisiana Purchase would have on the United States?

1 answer

Based on the excerpt, it can be inferred that the Louisiana Purchase significantly expanded the territory of the United States, thereby facilitating westward expansion. The doubling of the country's size allowed for increased settlement, economic development, and exploration of the western regions. Additionally, the acquisition of such a large area at a relatively low price suggests a strategic move to secure land for future growth and development, which could have long-term effects on the nation's demographics, economy, and political landscape.