Antoine Laumet de La Mothe, sieur de Cadillac

Antoine Laumet de La Mothe, sieur de Cadillac (1658–1730), was a French explorer and military officer best known for founding Detroit in 1701. He was tasked with establishing a settlement and trading post to expand France’s presence in North America. Cadillac was a skilled diplomat and leader, helping to build alliances with Native tribes. His vision contributed significantly to French colonial ambitions in the region. Today, Detroit’s name reflects his legacy, and he’s remembered as a key figure in early American and Canadian history.