Mosquitos and Revolts

       Napoleon Bonaparte had conquered almost all of Europe by 1801.  He began to turn his attention to the Western Hemisphere to establish an empire across the Atlantic.  France controlled the Louisiana Territory and the port city of New Orleans.  He sought to reclaim Haiti and use that as a launching point for his new empire. 

     History is not always neat and organized facts.  World changing events often occur because of things that we may not even seem to be significant at that time.  The defeat of the French army in Haiti could be possible if not for the mosquito.  French troops succumbed to yellow fever and malaria that spread in the tropical climate.  Unfamiliar with the disease, the French suffered heavy casualties.  They would never be able to retake Haiti and Napoleon would abandon his dreams of an overseas empire.

        Many Americans were concerned over French interest in the Louisiana Territory. Thomas Jefferson sent delegates to France to try and purchase the city of New Orleans.   The French minister informed the Americans that for $15 million they could purchase the entire Louisiana Territory.

        Things you should know

1. One reason why Napoleon was willing to sell Louisiana to the United States.

         2.  What personal dilemma did Jefferson face with the Louisiana Purchase?

         3. Why Napoleon wanted to control Haiti?

  4.  Why did Jefferson send Lewis and Clark to explore the Louisiana Territory?

Quiz Tomorrow...