When Meriwether Lewis and William Clark returned from their long journey, in 1806, they brought an incredible tale starring themselves as courageous explorers, skilled scientists, and peaceful ambassadors. There was truth in those descriptions. But there was also distortion.

For the first time in a generation, This Vast Enterprise offers a fresh and more accurate account of their expedition—a gripping narrative that draws on new documents, stunning analysis, and Native perspectives to reveal the vast scope of the expedition and the heroic sacrifices of a few human beings.