Sacagawea (c. 1788–1812) was a Shoshone woman who became an essential guide and interpreter for the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Taken from her tribe as a child and later living with French-Canadian trader Toussaint Charbonneau, she joined the expedition in 1804 while carrying her infant son. Her knowledge of the land and ability to communicate with Native tribes helped the group travel safely and secure vital supplies, including horses needed to cross the Rocky Mountains. Sacagawea’s presence also signaled peaceful intentions to other tribes, reducing the risk of conflict during the journey. Today, she is remembered as a symbol of courage, cooperation, and the important role Native Americans—and women—played in the exploration of the American West.