LOUISIANA PURCHASE

On Apri 0, 1803 the United States bought the Wovince of Louisiana from France. It Rt been ceded by France to Spain in 762 and re-ceded to France in 1800. Yapoleon was at war with England and ould not hold the province. The rice paid was 80,000,000 irancs, the Jnited States agreeing also to pay 0,000,000 francs of debts, The treaty. ratified by the senate provided that the inhabitants, about 90,000, should be incorporated in the United States with all the rights and privileges of citizens. Special privileges at New Orleans were offered to the ships of France and Spain for 12 years. TION. Held at St. Louis, April 30 to December 1, 1904 to celebrate the centenary of the purchase of Louisiane from France. The exposition was organized May 2, 1901 with David R. Francis as president. Legislative authority was obtained for raising the capital, $25,000,- 000, of which the United States contributed one fifth. The site chosen was within the city limits including 1200 acres of Forest Park. In the grounds were about 2500 groups and 1000 figures in sculpture. Admi ions 19,- 694,855 of which 12,804,616 paid. Total expenses $31,586,331. Total re-