Meriwether Lewis

Meriwether Lewis (August 18, 1774 – October 11, 1809) was an American explorer, soldier, and public administrator. He was best known for his role as the leader of the Lewis and Clark Expedition with William Clark. Their mission was to explore the territory of the Louisiana Purchase, establish trade and sovereignty over the natives near the Missouri River, and claim the Pacific Northwest and Oregon Country for the United States before European nations. They also collected scientific data, and information on indigenous nations.^[1] President Thomas Jefferson appointed him Governor of Upper Louisiana in 1806.^[2][3] He died of gunshot wounds in what was an act of suicide.

Meriwether Lewis
2nd Governor of Louisiana Territory
In office March 3, 1807 – October 11, 1809
Appointed by	Thomas Jefferson
Preceded by	James Wilkinson
Succeeded by	Benjamin Howard
Personal details
Born	(1774-08-18)August 18, 1774 Ivy, Virginia Colony
Died	October 11, 1809(1809-10-11) (aged 35) Hohenwald, Tennessee
Spouse(s)	none
Alma mater	Liberty Hall (Washington and Lee University), 1793
Occupation	explorer, soldier, politician
Signature