Meriwether Lewis was an American explorer, soldier, politician, and public administrator, best known for his role as the leader of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, also known as the Corps of Discovery, with William Clark. Their mission was to explore the territory of the Louisiana Purchase, establish trade with, and sovereignty over the natives near the Missouri River, and claim the Pacific Northwest and Oregon Country for the United States before European nations. They also collected scientific data and information on indigenous nations. President Thomas Jefferson appointed him Governor of Upper Louisiana in 1806. He died in 1809 of gunshot wounds, in what was either a murder or suicide.
Meriwether Lewis, American captain, explorer, and politician, 2nd Governor of Louisiana Territory (born 1774)
On October 11, in the year 1809, Meriwether Lewis, American captain, explorer, and politician, 2nd Governor of Louisiana Territory (born 1774). This event is recorded as a Notable Deaths event in the history of October 11, one of 415 recorded events on this date across all of history.
1 notable person is associated with this event, including Meriwether Lewis. Learn more below.
Key Facts
- This event took place on October 11, 1809 (AD era).
- It is categorised as a Notable Deaths event in recorded history.
- Referenced in 2 Wikipedia articles.
- 1 notable person is recorded as involved in or associated with this event.
- Wikipedia source last updated on 13 September 2026.
On This Date in History 415
This article draws on content from Wikipedia, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
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