a) John McLoughlin

Dr. John McLoughlin, known as the “Father of Oregon,” was instrumental in advocating settlement in the Pacific Northwest. A chief factor of the Hudson’s Bay Company, his fair trading practices and assistance to American settlers earned him this title. McLoughlin’s influence extended beyond trade; he provided crucial aid to the American settlers during their difficult early years in Oregon. Despite being employed by a British company, his actions significantly contributed to the American presence and eventual dominance in the Oregon Territory, shaping its development and settlement.