Claude-Jean Allouez

Born in 1622, a missionary and explorer worked primarily in North America during the 17th century. He established missions among Native American tribes in the Great Lakes region, most notably among the Illinois and Huron peoples. Allouez contributed to the early efforts of European colonization by mapping and documenting the interior of North America, facilitating communication between French settlers and Native Americans. He played a significant role in the spread of Christianity through his missionary work and established several missions, including the notable Mission of St. Mark among the Ottawa. His explorations helped to expand the knowledge of the vast territories of North America during this period.