Passion for Exploration: Thompson had an insatiable curiosity about the world and a strong desire to explore and discover new territories. He was fascinated by the vast wilderness and the challenge of mapping uncharted lands.
Scientific Curiosity: Thompson was a skilled surveyor and mapmaker, and he was deeply interested in the scientific aspects of exploration. He wanted to accurately record geographical features, create detailed maps, and contribute to the scientific knowledge of the region.
Economic Opportunity: Exploration could lead to economic opportunities, such as the discovery of new resources, trading opportunities, or the establishment of new settlements. Thompson was aware of the potential benefits of exploring the western territories and the possibilities it offered for economic growth.
Political Significance: Exploration played a significant role in shaping political boundaries and asserting territorial claims. By exploring and mapping the western regions of North America, Thompson was helping to establish the presence and influence of the British Empire in the region.
Legacy and Personal Ambition: Thompson was ambitious and wanted to leave a lasting legacy as an explorer and surveyor. He saw exploration as a way to achieve recognition and make a significant contribution to geographical knowledge.
Overall, David Thompson's choice to explore was driven by a combination of his passion for exploration, scientific curiosity, economic considerations, political significance, and personal ambition. His dedication and contributions to exploration left a lasting impact on the understanding of the western territories of North America.