Éleuthère Irénée du Pont was a French-American chemist and industrialist born on April 24, 1771. He is best known for founding the DuPont company in 1802, which initially focused on producing gunpowder. His expertise in chemistry and innovative techniques helped establish the company as a leader in explosives manufacturing. Du Pont emigrated to the United States in 1800, seeking better opportunities. He settled in Delaware, where he built a successful business that expanded into various chemical products over the years. His contributions laid the groundwork for what would become one of the largest and most diversified chemical companies in the world.