Auguste Chouteau was a French fur trader and explorer born in 1730. He is best known for co-founding the city of St. Louis, Missouri in 1764 alongside Pierre Laclède. Chouteau played a significant role in the early development of the region, establishing trade routes and relationships with local Native American tribes. Chouteau's contributions extended beyond trade; he was instrumental in the establishment of the Missouri Fur Company. His efforts helped to shape the economic landscape of the area, making St. Louis a vital hub for commerce and exploration in the early United States. He passed away in 1829.