Digital Repository

Jefferson, Confidential Message to Congress Concerning Western Exploration and Relations with Native Americans, 1803

In this 1803 message to Congress, Jefferson explains his belief that learning Western culture was the best course of action for Native Americans. He further tells Congress that trading with Americans and learning American farming methods would make Native Americans embrace Anglo-American culture. Jefferson asks Congress to fund an exploratory expedition (what would become the Lewis and Clark expedition) to establish further trade contacts with Native Americans and seek a possible route to the Pacific Ocean.

Thomas Jefferson, Confidential Message to Congress Concerning Western Exploration and Relations with Native Americans, January 18, 1803. Records of the United States House of Representatives, Record Group 233, National Archives.