What territory did the United States purchase from France in 1803?

The United States purchased the Louisiana Territory from France in 1803, a significant event in American history known as the Louisiana Purchase. This acquisition doubled the size of the United States at the time, adding approximately 828,000 square miles of land. It extended from the Mississippi River to the Rocky Mountains and from the Gulf of Mexico to Canada.

This purchase was crucial for several reasons: it provided vast amounts of fertile land for agriculture, offered opportunities for westward expansion, and gave the U.S. control over the Mississippi River and its tributaries, which were vital for trade and transportation. Negotiated under President Thomas Jefferson, the deal was made for $15 million, a price that is often regarded as one of the best real estate deals in history.

The other territories listed in the options—Alaska, Florida, and Texas—were acquired at different times through different means. Alaska was purchased from Russia in 1867, Florida was acquired from Spain in 1819, and Texas was annexed by the U.S. in 1845 after gaining independence from Mexico. Thus, the Louisiana Territory stands out as the correct answer for the territory acquired from France in 1803.