Alexander Mackenzie was a Scottish explorer known for being the first person to cross North America from east to west. He achieved this significant journey in 1793, reaching the Pacific Ocean via the Bella Coola River in present-day British Columbia. His expeditions contributed to the understanding of the geography and indigenous cultures of Canada. Mackenzie was born in 1764 in Stornoway, Scotland, and later moved to Canada, where he worked in the fur trade. His explorations were crucial for the North West Company, and he documented his travels in his book, "Voyages from Montreal," published in 1801.