HISET Social Studies Practice

What significant land acquisition occurred in 1803 for $15 million?

1. The Florida Purchase

2. The Louisiana Purchase

3. The Texas Annexation

4. The Alaska Purchase

The correct answer is: The Louisiana Purchase

The significant land acquisition that occurred in 1803 for $15 million is indeed the Louisiana Purchase. This monumental transaction involved the United States acquiring approximately 827,000 square miles of territory from France, effectively doubling the size of the nation at that time. This land acquisition was vital for several reasons, including the expansion of agricultural lands and the opportunity for westward exploration and settlement. It also secured control of the Mississippi River and the vital port of New Orleans, which were crucial for trade and commerce. The other options represent different historical events that are significant but do not match the specifics of the question regarding the year and amount. The Florida Purchase involved acquiring Florida from Spain in 1819, the Texas Annexation occurred in 1845, and the Alaska Purchase took place in 1867. Each of these acquisitions played a crucial role in the growth of the United States but falls outside the context of the Louisiana Purchase in 1803.