Which territory did the United States acquire in 1803?

The United States acquired the Louisiana Territory in 1803 through the Louisiana Purchase, which was a significant event in American history. This acquisition involved the purchase of approximately 827,000 square miles of land from France, effectively doubling the size of the United States at that time. The purchase was motivated by the desire for land and resources, as well as the need to secure the port of New Orleans for trade.

The Louisiana Territory was vital for various reasons, including its agricultural potential and the opportunity for westward expansion, which would play a critical role in shaping the nation's future. The deal was negotiated by President Thomas Jefferson and was made at a cost of about $15 million, a bargain that greatly enhanced the nation's landholdings.

In contrast, the other territories mentioned, such as the Florida Territory, Alaska Territory, and Texas Territory, were acquired at different times. The Florida Territory was acquired in 1819 with the Adams-Onís Treaty, Alaska was purchased from Russia in 1867, and Texas became a state in 1845 after being an independent republic. Thus, the Louisiana Purchase is uniquely significant as the territory gained in 1803.