Eusebio Francisco Kino

Eusebio Francisco Kino S.J. (1645–1711) was a Roman Catholic priest who became famous for his exploration of northwestern Mexico and the southwestern United States (primarily northern Sonora and southern Arizona) and for his work to Christianize the indigenous Native American population, including primarily the Sobaipuri and other Upper Piman groups. He proved that California was not an island by leading an overland expedition there from Arizona. He established twenty-four missions and visitas ("country chapels") and was known for his ability to create relationships between indigenous peoples and the religious institutions he represented.