Louisiana Territory facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Territory of Louisiana |
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| Organized incorporated territory of the United States | |||||||||
| 1805–1812 | |||||||||
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 A map of the Territory of Louisiana |
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| Capital | St. Louis | ||||||||
| Government | |||||||||
| • Type | Organized incorporated territory | ||||||||
| Governor | |||||||||
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• 1805–1807
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James Wilkinson | ||||||||
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• 1807–1809
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Meriwether Lewis | ||||||||
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• 1810–1812
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Benjamin Howard | ||||||||
| History | |||||||||
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• Established
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4 July 1805 | ||||||||
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• Renamed Territory of Missouri
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4 June 1812 | ||||||||
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The Territory of Louisiana was a special area of land in the United States. It was like a part of the country that wasn't yet a state. This territory was created on July 4, 1805. It was made from a much larger area called Louisiana (New France). The Territory of Louisiana existed for about seven years. On June 4, 1812, its name was changed to the Missouri Territory.
How the Territory Was Formed
The United States government, also known as Congress, made a law on March 3, 1805. This law officially turned the "District of Louisiana" into the "Territory of Louisiana." This change became official on July 4, 1805.
The way the Territory of Louisiana was run was similar to how the Indiana Territory was governed. This meant it had a specific set of rules and leaders.
Governing the Territory
The main city and center of government for the Territory of Louisiana was St. Louis. This city was important for trade and travel in the region.
The very first governor of the territory was a man named James Wilkinson. He was chosen for this important job by President Thomas Jefferson. While he was governor, James Wilkinson also held a high position in the United States Army.
Later, other governors led the territory. These included Meriwether Lewis, famous for his expedition, and Benjamin Howard.
See also
In Spanish: Territorio de Luisiana para niños
