Henri de Tonti was an Italian explorer and soldier born around 1650. He is best known for his role in the early exploration of North America, particularly in the regions that are now part of the United States. Tonti served as an aide to the French explorer Robert Cavelier, Sieur de La Salle and was instrumental in establishing French settlements in the Mississippi River Valley. Tonti is often referred to as the "Iron Hand" due to the prosthetic hand he wore after losing his own in battle. His contributions to exploration and his relationships with Native American tribes were significant in the development of French colonial interests in Louisiana and the surrounding areas.