Great Falls of the Missouri Summary and Analysis

The captains are now both convinced the southern fork is the right one, but they yet have to convince the other members. After a day spent studying the maps, taking measurements and analyzing the water of each stream, they are more convinced than ever of the correctness of their choice. However, their scientific arguments are not sufficient to convince the other members of the party. The co-captains then make the political decision and decide to send another scouting team up the southern fork, until they can reach a huge waterfall; they know from the Hidatsas that if they see the falls, they are following the true Missouri River. On June 12, after recovering from an illness with the help of a decoction of his own trade, Meriwether Lewis leaves Clark behind at the junction...