A vast population of diverse native peoples inhabited North America for many centuries prior to the migration of Europeans to this continent. When Europeans first came ashore, they became intent on exploring the entire continent. Exploration and travel forever changed the population and topography of North America. Missouri, in particular, served an important role in the exploration of the West. In fact, Missouri became known as the “Gateway to the West” because of its geographic location and the commercial centers that sprang up to support the ventures of explorers and settlers. Many Missourians, both women and men, have been explorers and travelers in this country and abroad. They have set off into unknown territories for various reasons and with different results. The State Historical Society holds many resources that document and illustrate Missouri’s role in the period of Westward Expansion. It also contains materials about people who explored and traveled widely in other areas of the world. You can learn about the lives of Famous Missouri Explorers and Travelers by selecting each name.