Peace and Friendship:
* Respect and goodwill: They were to emphasize that the United States sought peaceful coexistence and desired friendly relations with Native American tribes.
* No territorial claims: While the Louisiana Purchase had expanded the US territory, Lewis and Clark were to avoid making any claims of ownership over the lands they explored.
* Commercial partnerships: They were encouraged to foster trade relations and establish a mutually beneficial exchange of goods.
Information Gathering:
* Mapping the territory: They were tasked with creating detailed maps of the newly acquired lands, including rivers, mountains, and plains.
* Scientific exploration: They were instructed to gather information on the flora, fauna, and geology of the West, as well as the cultures and languages of the Native Americans.
Diplomacy and Negotiation:
* Treaty making: Lewis and Clark were empowered to negotiate treaties with Native American tribes, establishing trade agreements and setting boundaries.
* Understanding Native customs: They were instructed to learn about Native American customs and traditions to avoid causing offense or misunderstandings.
Religious and Political Matters:
* Respect for Native beliefs: They were to acknowledge and respect the spiritual beliefs and practices of the tribes they encountered.
* Promoting US government policies: They were to explain US policies related to trade, land use, and westward expansion.
Beyond the specific instructions, they were to maintain a positive and respectful attitude towards Native Americans, demonstrating that the United States sought a peaceful and mutually beneficial relationship.
It's important to note that the expedition's encounters with Native American tribes were complex, and the relationship was not always peaceful. Lewis and Clark's interactions sometimes led to misunderstandings and tensions, highlighting the challenges of intercultural diplomacy.