Prepare for the UCF AMH2010 U.S. History Exam 2. Master key historic concepts with flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Get exam-ready!

The Louisiana Purchase significantly enlarged U.S. territory from France by acquiring a vast expanse of land in North America. In 1803, the United States, under President Thomas Jefferson, purchased approximately 828,000 square miles of territory for $15 million. This acquisition not only doubled the size of the nation but also provided access to important resources, trade routes, and land for future settlement, paving the way for westward expansion. The acquisition played a crucial role in the United States' emergence as a continental power and had long-lasting implications for its geographic and economic development.