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The Louisiana Purchase Deal of 1803 — Reading Comprehension

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D2.HIS.1.3-5
D2.HIS.3.3-5
RI.4.3
RI.4.4
W.4.2

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This engaging U.S. history reading passage explores the Louisiana Purchase of 1803, when the United States doubled in size by buying land from France. Students will learn about President Thomas Jefferson, the reasons behind the purchase, and the impact it had on the nation’s growth. The passage uses clear, simple language and includes a glossary of key terms to support vocabulary development. It is aligned with C3 Framework and Common Core standards for history and literacy. Activities include a multiple-choice quiz, writing prompts, a timeline, and graphic organizers to reinforce comprehension and critical thinking. Read aloud audio and a full Spanish translation are included, making the resource accessible for all learners. This resource is perfect for building foundational historical knowledge while supporting reading skills.

CONTENT PREVIEW

"Frank bond 1912 louisiana and the louisiana purchase" / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain).

The Louisiana Purchase was a deal made in 1803 that doubled the size of the United States. President Thomas Jefferson wanted to help the country grow and give people more land. At that time, the land west of the Mississippi River belonged to France. It was called Louisiana, and it stretched from the Gulf of Mexico to Canada.

France was ruled by Napoleon Bonaparte. He needed money for his wars in Europe. At first, Jefferson only wanted to buy the port city of New Orleans. He sent American ministers to France to try to make this negotiation. But something surprising happened. Napoleon offered to sell all of Louisiana, not just New Orleans. He wanted $15 million for the whole territory.

Jefferson was shocked by the offer. He knew it was a huge chance for the United States. If America owned Louisiana, the country would have more land to farm, more control of the Mississippi River, and more room for people to move west. But Jefferson had a problem. He was not sure if the President was allowed by the Constitution to buy land from other countries. He also did not have time to ask Congress for permission. The offer might disappear if he waited.

Jefferson decided to act quickly. He told the American ministers to agree to the deal. The two sides signed a treaty in Paris on April 30, 1803. The United States paid France $15 million. This was about 4 cents an acre. The land doubled the size of the young nation overnight. All the citizens of the new territory became Americans.

The Louisiana Purchase showed how leaders sometimes have to make fast decisions. Jefferson’s choice changed the country forever. It helped the United States become bigger, richer, and more powerful. People started moving west to build new towns and farms. The purchase also showed the importance of smart negotiation and taking big opportunities.

Interesting Fact: The Louisiana Purchase gave the United States land that would later become 15 new states!

Who was the U.S. president in 1803?

Thomas JeffersonGeorge WashingtonJohn AdamsAbraham Lincoln

What country sold Louisiana?

FranceSpainEnglandMexico

How much did the U.S. pay?

$15 million$1 million$50 million$100,000

Why did Napoleon sell Louisiana?

Needed money for warsWanted peaceLoved AmericaLost a battle

Why was Jefferson unsure about buying land?

The Constitution was unclearHe had no moneyNapoleon refusedCongress said no

What did the purchase do to the U.S.?