Which explorer is known for claiming Oklahoma for France despite never having seen it?

The explorer known for claiming Oklahoma for France, despite never having visited the area, is LaSalle. This claim is significant in the context of European exploration and colonization of North America. LaSalle, whose full name is René-Robert Cavelier, Sieur de La Salle, undertook expeditions in the late 17th century, exploring parts of the Mississippi River and surrounding regions.

In 1682, LaSalle claimed the entire Mississippi River basin for France, which included present-day Oklahoma as part of that vast territory. His expeditions marked an important moment in the history of French claims to land in North America, highlighting the ambitions of European powers to explore and control vast territories.

The other explorers mentioned are known for significant contributions to their own explorations but did not claim Oklahoma for France. Therefore, LaSalle's actions are notable for establishing early French interest in the region, even if he did not set foot in what would become Oklahoma. This context establishes LaSalle's historical importance in the narrative of exploration in North America.