New Orleans: An Important Port — Reading Comprehension

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Grades

Standards

D2.HIS.3.3-5
D2.HIS.14.3-5
RI.4.3
RI.4.4
W.4.2

About This Reader

This engaging U.S. history reading passage explores the crucial role of New Orleans and the Louisiana Purchase in shaping the early United States. Students learn about the Mississippi River, the importance of ports, and the actions of Thomas Jefferson as president. Through a clear and chronological narrative, the passage highlights how the purchase of Louisiana doubled the size of the country and opened new opportunities for Americans. Activities include a glossary, multiple-choice quiz, writing prompts, and a timeline of important events. The passage is aligned to C3 Framework and Common Core standards and features a read aloud audio and Spanish translation, making it accessible for all learners. Key terms such as 'port,' 'territory,' and 'trade' are defined and reinforced throughout the lesson. This resource is ideal for classrooms studying America's westward expansion and the challenges faced by the new nation.

CONTENT PREVIEW

"Louisiana purchase treaty" / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain).

The city of New Orleans was once one of the most important places in America. In the early 1800s, the United States was a young country. Many people lived near the Mississippi River, which was like a big water highway. Farmers used the river to send their crops to other places. The river led to the port of New Orleans, where ships could carry goods all over the world.

The United States did not own New Orleans at first. It belonged to another country called France. The French leader, Napoleon, controlled the city and a huge area called the Louisiana Territory. People in the United States worried they might not be able to use the port. Without it, farmers could not sell their crops easily. President Thomas Jefferson wanted to make sure Americans could always use New Orleans.

In 1803, Jefferson sent men to talk to the French. He wanted to buy the city. Napoleon surprised them. He offered to sell all of the Louisiana Territory, not just New Orleans! The United States agreed to pay $15 million for the land. This agreement was called the Louisiana Purchase. It doubled the size of the country.

Getting New Orleans was very important. It gave Americans control of the port. Farmers could trade and sell their crops without worry. The Mississippi River stayed open for everyone. The new land also gave many people a chance to move west and start new lives.

President Jefferson said, "The purchase of New Orleans is worth a million to us." He knew how valuable it was. The Louisiana Purchase helped America grow stronger and bigger. It showed how leaders could solve problems through negotiation.

Today, New Orleans is still an important city. People visit to see its history, music, and food. The port is still busy with ships from around the world. The story of New Orleans and the Louisiana Purchase shows how one city changed a whole country.

Interesting Fact: The Louisiana Purchase added about 828,000 square miles of land to the United States!

Who was President during the Louisiana Purchase?

Thomas JeffersonGeorge WashingtonAbraham LincolnBenjamin Franklin

What river was important for trade?

Mississippi RiverAmazon RiverNile RiverColorado River

Which country sold Louisiana to the U.S.?

FranceSpainEnglandMexico

Why was New Orleans important?

It had a busy portIt was a desertIt had gold minesIt was the capital

How did the Louisiana Purchase help America?

Doubled its sizeLost landClosed the riverStarted a war

What did farmers use the river for?