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.

Question

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

Answer 1

Based on the excerpt provided, the following inference can be made about the effect the Louisiana Purchase would have on the United States:

1. Territorial Expansion: The Louisiana Purchase significantly expanded the territory of the United States, as it involved the acquisition of a vast region of land west of the Mississippi River from France, thereby increasing the nation's size and resources.

2. Strategic Control: Gaining control over the Mississippi River basin would enhance the United States' ability to trade and transport goods, as the river was a critical artery for commerce at the time.

3. Economic Development: The purchase could lead to increased economic opportunities through agriculture, trade, and settlement, as new lands would become available for farming and other developments.

4. National Identity and Westward Expansion: The acquisition likely contributed to the growing sense of American nationalism and the concept of Manifest Destiny, the belief that the nation was destined to expand across the continent.

5. Political Implications: The agreement reflects a significant political maneuvering in the Senate, indicating a strong support for westward expansion and a shift in the balance of power due to the new territories.

In summary, the Louisiana Purchase is likely to have had profound effects on the country's expansion, economy, and political landscape.