Claude Poullart des Places was a French priest born in 1679. He is best known for founding the Congregation of the Holy Spirit, also known as the Spiritans, in 1703. This religious community focused on missionary work and education, particularly in areas where the Catholic Church was less established. Des Places dedicated his life to serving the poor and marginalized. He was deeply influenced by the needs of the people around him, which motivated his commitment to social justice and education. He passed away in 1740, leaving a lasting legacy through the work of the Spiritans around the world.