Opening the West With Lewis and Clark: By Boat, Horse and Foot Up the Great River Missouri, Across the Stony Mountains and on to the Pacific, When in the Years 1804, 1805, 1806, Young Captain Lewis, the Long Knife, and His Friend Captain Clark, the Red Head Chief, Aided by Sacajawea, the Birdwoman, Conducted Their Little Band of Men Tried and True Through the Unknown New United States

"Opening the West With Lewis and Clark" by Edwin L. Sabin is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This work chronicles the famous expedition led by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark as they journey across the uncharted territory of the western United States from 1804 to 1806. The narrative places a strong emphasis on the explorers' interactions with Native American tribes, as well as the personal growth and courageous feats carried out by the expedition members. The opening of the book sets the stage for the expedition, highlighting the critical political and geographical context of early 19th-century America, including President Jefferson's ambitions for westward expansion. It introduces Captain Lewis and Captain Clark as they prepare to embark on their journey, emphasizing their leadership qualities and the diverse crew assembled for the task. The inciting moment occurs with the formal transfer of Louisiana Territory from Spain to the United States, which ignites the expedition's urgency. The reader is also introduced to the boy Little White Osage, who, being of mixed heritage, feels a pull toward the explorers as they seek to forge peace with the Native tribes, setting the groundwork for themes of identity and belonging that will unfold throughout the journey.