Thomas Jefferson and the Louisiana Purchase — Reading Comprehension

President Thomas Jefferson led the United States in the early 1800s. At that time, the country was much smaller than it is today. Many people dreamed of new land and new chances to grow. They wanted to travel west and build new homes. But much of the land to the west was controlled by France.

In 1803, Jefferson learned that France was willing to sell a huge area called Louisiana. This land stretched from the Mississippi River to the Rocky Mountains. Jefferson saw a chance to help his country. He sent ambassadors to talk with French leaders in Paris. He wanted to buy New Orleans, a key city for trade.

To his surprise, France offered to sell all of Louisiana for $15 million. That was a lot of money, but it meant the United States could double in size. Jefferson thought hard about the decision. He wrote, “The acquisition of New Orleans would of itself have been a great thing.”

In April 1803, the United States agreed to the deal. The treaty was signed in Paris. This was called the Louisiana Purchase. Jefferson was proud. He believed this new land would help American settlers and make the nation stronger. Many people moved west to start new lives.

The Louisiana Purchase showed Jefferson’s skill as a leader. It also showed the power of peaceful negotiation. The United States grew larger and more united after this famous land deal.

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

Who was U.S. President in 1803?

What country sold Louisiana to the U.S.?

How much did the U.S. pay for Louisiana?

Why did Jefferson want New Orleans?

What did the Louisiana Purchase do?

What does negotiation mean?

The treaty was signed in Paris. True or false?

Who are settlers?