Language, Prejudice, and the Under-Acknowledged Importance of the Lewis and Clark Interpreters

Authors

  • Iulia Sava University of Colorado Boulder

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.33011/cuhj20253691

Keywords:

lewis and clark, indigenous, native american, translation, interpreter, language

Abstract

This research paper analyzes the importance of capable interpreters in the successes and failures of the Lewis and Clark expedition. After establishing the linguistic context of the region, the paper uses the journals of Lewis and Clark to analyze case studies from various hired interpreters and to conclude that while reliable interpreters marked the difference between a mission's success and failure, their importance was often underestimated by expedition leaders. 

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Published

2025-04-29

How to Cite

Sava, I. (2025). Language, Prejudice, and the Under-Acknowledged Importance of the Lewis and Clark Interpreters. University of Colorado Honors Journal, 16–17. https://doi.org/10.33011/cuhj20253691

Issue

Section

Humanities