Ep 12. Lewis & Clark: The Journey of the Corps of Discovery

In the 12th episode of the first season of Ken Burns: American Lives, viewers are taken on a fascinating journey exploring the historic Lewis and Clark expedition. The episode, entitled Lewis & Clark: The Journey of the Corps of Discovery, brings to life the incredible experiences of the team of explorers who set out in 1804 to map and explore the new western territories of the United States.

The episode paints a vivid picture of the grueling 8,000-mile trek undertaken by the Corps of Discovery, showcasing the vast array of challenges they faced on their journey. Through animation, interviews with historians and experts, and readings from the journals of Lewis and Clark themselves, viewers are transported back in time and follow the team's progress through the rough terrain, over mountains and rivers and across the great prairies of the United States.

As the expedition progresses, the hardships increase, with moments of illness, hunger, and even death. But the team perseveres, navigating new territories and encountering unfamiliar people and wildlife along the way. Viewers are introduced to the various Native American tribes the expedition came across, learning about their diverse customs, traditions, and languages. We also learn about the hurdles faced by the team, including difficult navigation, communication barriers and developing relations with the Native American communities.

The episode takes a closer look at the relationship between Lewis and Clark, which was critical to the success of the expedition. Though the two individuals had starkly different personalities and backgrounds, they came together incredibly as leaders of the Corps of Discovery. Their collaboration, decision-making, and trust in each other helped keep the expedition as a unit amidst all of the challenges they faced.

Overall, Lewis & Clark: The Journey of the Corps of Discover showcases an incredible chapter in American history, exploring the brave and daring exploits of the Corps of Discovery. The episode provides a rich and informative insight into this historic moment, revealing the human elements of the story beyond just the basic facts. With Ken Burns' signature style of storytelling, viewers are sure to come away with a deeper appreciation for the sacrifice and bravery of Lewis, Clark, and the team that made a daring and unforgettable journey into the Western territories of the fledgling United States.