Philanthropy is the effort or inclination to increase the well-being of humankind by charitable aid or donations. Many Missourians, both women and men, have made important contributions of their time, talent, and money to help improve the lives of people living in Missouri and the United States and around the world. The State Historical Society holds many resources that document and illustrate the lives of Missouri’s most important philanthropists. You can learn about the lives of Famous Missouri Philanthropists by selecting each name.