Meriwether Lewis was an American explorer, soldier, and public administrator best known for his role as the leader of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Born on August 18, 1774, in Virginia, he was appointed by President Thomas Jefferson to explore the newly acquired Louisiana Territory and find a route to the Pacific Ocean. Lewis, along with his friend William Clark, embarked on the expedition in 1804, traveling over 8,000 miles and mapping uncharted territories. Their journey provided valuable information about the geography, flora, and fauna of the region, as well as establishing relations with various Native American tribes.