Zebulon Pike and American Exploration

Zebulon Pike was an American explorer born in 1779, known for his expeditions into the uncharted American West. His most famous journey, the Pike Expedition, was commissioned by the U.S. government to explore the southwestern Louisiana Purchase. During this expedition, Pike was captured by Spanish forces but later released. His detailed reports and maps significantly enhanced the geographical knowledge of the American West, including the discovery of Pikes Peak. Pike also established a fur trading post and served as a Brigadier General in the War of 1812, dying in the Battle of York. His explorations laid the groundwork for future American expansion and are celebrated for their contributions to scientific inquiry and mapmaking.

What year was Zebulon Pike born?

• 1779

• 1789

• 1769

• 1799

What was the primary goal of Pike's famous expedition?

• To explore the southwestern Louisiana Purchase

• To establish trade with Native American tribes

• To map the Mississippi River

• To find a route to the Pacific Ocean

Where were Pike and his party detained during their expedition?

• Texas

• New Mexico

• Arizona

• Chihuahua, Mexico

Which peak did Zebulon Pike discover?

• Mount Whitney

• Pikes Peak

• Mount Elbert

• Mount Rainier

What book did Pike publish detailing his adventures?

• Explorations of the American West

• Journeys through the Louisiana Purchase

• An Account of Expeditions to the Sources of the Mississippi

• The Great American Frontier

What rank did Pike achieve during the War of 1812?

• Brigadier General

• Lieutenant

• Colonel

• Major General

In which battle did Zebulon Pike die?

• Battle of New Orleans

• Battle of York

• Battle of Tippecanoe

• Battle of Lake Erie

What was one of Pike's significant contributions to American exploration?

• Founding the first American settlement in California

• Establishing the Oregon Trail

• Mapping the Appalachian Mountains

• Enhancing geographical knowledge of the American West

What was a key challenge faced by Pike during his expeditions?

• Lack of funding

• Harsh weather and rugged terrain

• Hostile European settlers

• Shortage of supplies

How is Zebulon Pike remembered in the context of American exploration?

• As a pioneer of the Oregon Trail

• As the founder of the first American university

• As a key figure in westward expansion

• As a failed explorer