Peter De Smet

Peter De Smet

Peter De Smet: Explorer, Missionary, and Advocate for Native Americans

Early Life and Exploration

Peter De Smet was born in Belgium in 1801. He joined the Jesuit order in 1818 and was ordained a priest in 1827. In 1838, he was sent to the United States as a missionary to the Native American tribes of the Rocky Mountains. De Smet traveled extensively throughout the West, exploring new territories and establishing missions among the Native Americans.

De Smet's explorations played a significant role in the mapping and understanding of the American West. He was the first European to explore the Yellowstone River and the Grand Tetons. He also provided valuable information about the Native American tribes of the region, their customs, and their languages.

Advocacy for Native Americans

In addition to his missionary work, De Smet was also a vocal advocate for the rights of Native Americans. He spoke out against the government's policies of removal and assimilation, and he worked to promote peace and understanding between Native Americans and white settlers.

De Smet's advocacy for Native Americans earned him the respect of both Native Americans and white settlers. He was known as a man of integrity and compassion, and his work helped to improve the lives of many Native Americans.

Legacy

Peter De Smet died in St. Louis, Missouri, in 1873. He is remembered as one of the most important missionaries and explorers of the American West. His work helped to shape the history of the region, and his legacy continues to inspire people today.

In recognition of his contributions, De Smet has been honored with numerous memorials and landmarks. Mount De Smet in Wyoming is named after him, as is the town of De Smet in South Dakota. There is also a statue of De Smet in the National Statuary Hall Collection in the U.S. Capitol Building.