William Clark

William Clark (August 1, 1770 – September 1, 1838) was an American explorer, soldier, Indian agent, and territorial governor.^[1] A native of Virginia, he grew up in prestatehood Kentucky before later settling in what became the state of Missouri. Clark was a planter and slaveholder.^[2]

William Clark
4th Governor of Missouri Territory
In office July 1, 1813 – September 18, 1820
Appointed by	James Madison
Preceded by	Benjamin Howard
Succeeded by	Alexander McNair
Personal details
Born	(1770-08-01)August 1, 1770 Ladysmith, Virginia Colony
Died	September 1, 1838(1838-09-01) (aged 68) St. Louis, Missouri
Spouse(s)	Julia Hancock ​ (m. 1808⁠–⁠1820)​ (her death) Harriet Kennerly Radford ​ ​ (m. 1820⁠–⁠1831)​ (her death)
Parents	John Clark III, Ann Rogers Clark
Occupation	soldier, explorer, politician
Signature

Along with Meriwether Lewis, Clark led the Lewis and Clark Expedition of 1803 to 1806 across the Louisiana Purchase to the Pacific Ocean, and claimed the Pacific Northwest for the United States.^[3] Before the expedition, he served in a militia and the United States Army. Afterward, he served in a militia and as governor of the Missouri Territory. From 1822 until his death in 1838 (aged 68) he served as Superintendent of Indian Affairs.