David Thompson was a prominent Canadian explorer and fur trader in the 18th and early 19th centuries. Born in 1770 in London, England, he is best known for mapping large portions of North America, including areas of present-day Canada and the United States. His extensive travels and detailed observations contributed significantly to the understanding of the geography and indigenous cultures of the region. Thompson worked for the North West Company and spent nearly 30 years exploring the wilderness. He is credited with creating one of the most accurate maps of North America at the time, which included the Rocky Mountains and the Great Lakes. His legacy is celebrated for its impact on exploration and cartography.