The U.S. Exploring Expedition

Though the U.S. Exploring Expedition of 1836 is considered the first systematic scientific expedition made by the United States, it was not a success.

One reason why the expedition was a failure is that ships were disabled at sea. Many of the innovations contributed to the exploration of the sea had not yet been made, and treacherous weather often served as an obstacle to ships.

Another reason why the expedition was not completely successful was the lack of adequate data. Though plenty of samples were collected, they were lost or mishandled. Consequently, much of the scientific collection could not be thoroughly researched.

A third reason contributing to the expedition's failure was the insufficient funding for publication of the expedition's research. Due to the fact that nobody knew much about the ocean to begin with and that the people were unable to view the slim amount of data that had been collected, there was little public interest. Ultimately, the expedition's goal to learn more about the ocean and spread awareness of its findings was not met.

Though the U.S. Exploring Expedition did not achieve its goal, it is important because it allowed future ships and expeditions to learn from its mistakes.