By documenting the resources available in the western United States. Lewis and Clark's expedition collected a vast amount of information about the plants, animals, and minerals found in the western United States. This information was essential for settlers who wanted to know what kind of resources they could expect to find in their new homes.
By forging relationships with Native American tribes. Lewis and Clark's expedition made contact with dozens of Native American tribes, and they were able to establish peaceful relations with many of them. This was essential for settlers who wanted to move west, as it helped to reduce the risk of conflict with Native Americans.
By inspiring a spirit of adventure and exploration. Lewis and Clark's expedition was a tremendous success, and it captured the imagination of the American public. This inspired many people to dream of moving west and exploring the new frontier.
In addition to these specific ways, the Lewis and Clark expedition also helped to prepare people for the challenges of moving west by providing them with a general sense of what to expect. The expedition showed that the western United States was a vast and unforgiving land, but it was also a land of opportunity. This information helped to both attract settlers to the West and to prepare them for the difficulties they would face there.