The Lewis and Clark Expeditions, led by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, played a pivotal role in the early exploration and mapping of the Nebraska territory, which they encountered during the spring of 1804 and again in the fall of 1806. On their journey up the Missouri River, the explorers were able to gather valuable information about the terrain, wildlife, and Native American tribes of the region, all of which would later prove essential for the development and settlement of the state.

One of the most significant events that occurred during the expedition's stay in Nebraska was their encounter with the Omaha and Missouria Native American tribes near present-day Omaha, Nebraska. It was here that they were able to gain valuable insight into the region's culture and geography, as well as purchase supplies and gather information about the further reaches of the Missouri River. This meeting also marked the beginning of a delicate relationship between the United States government and the Native American tribes of the region, a relationship that would continue to evolve in the years to come.

The Lewis and Clark Expedition followed the Missouri River northwest through present-day Omaha, Nebraska City, and Fort Calhoun, a strategic location established by the United States government in 1812 to protect the interests of American traders and trappers. From here, the expedition turned westward, crossing into present-day South Dakota before returning to the Missouri River and following it northward. Along the way, they encountered numerous obstacles, including rushing waterfalls, treacherous river crossings, and encounters with hostile Native American tribes.

In the fall of 1806, the Lewis and Clark Expedition returned to the Nebraska territory, this time following the Missouri River eastward and passing by present-day Omaha before turning southward and crossing into present-day Kansas. This leg of the journey marked the final stages of the expedition, as Lewis and Clark prepared to return to St. Louis and present their findings to President Thomas Jefferson. Their return marked the culmination of a long and arduous journey that had taken them thousands of miles across the American wilderness.

In assessing the Lewis and Clark Expeditions' impact on Nebraska history, it is essential to consider their role in mapping the region and facilitating further settlement and development. Their encounters with Native American tribes, though often fraught with tension, helped to establish a groundwork for future interactions and contributed to the development of United States government policy in the region. Furthermore, their detailed descriptions of the region's geography, climate, and wildlife provided invaluable insights for later settlers and explorers.

Today, visitors can follow the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, which spans over 3,700 miles of the expedition's journey, including a significant portion of the Nebraska territory. Key stops along the way include the Chimney Rock National Historic Site near Bayard, Nebraska, and the Fort Atkinson State Historical Park near Fort Calhoun, Nebraska, both of which offer insight into the region's natural and cultural history.

Traveling through the Nebraska territory remains a crucial aspect of understanding the Lewis and Clark Expeditions, and visitors can continue to draw on the resources and knowledge they gathered during their time in the region. Present-day travelers can not only view the Chimney Rock, but also visit the grave site of Sergeant Floyd, the first and only member of the party to die en route, as well as the riverine settlement of Nebraska City.

The experience of Lewis and Clark's Expedition can truly be observed in the cultural as well as topographical developments in the region of Nebraska even to this day.