What was the main reason that the United States wanted to control the Mississippi River?

It led to discovery of California

It established permanent settlements in Oregon

It resulted in peace treaties with Native Americans

To establish new trade with Europe

1 answer

The main reason that the United States wanted to control the Mississippi River was to establish new trade with Europe. The Mississippi River was a vital transportation route for shipping goods, and controlling it allowed for the facilitation of trade and commerce, which was critical for the economic growth of the young nation. The river provided access to the Gulf of Mexico and was essential for transporting agricultural products from the interior of the country to international markets.