Michel Aco
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Michel Aco (fl.1680–1702) was a French explorer who, along with René Robert Cavelier, Sieur de La Salle and Father Louis Hennepin, explored the Mississippi River. Aco became La Salle's lieutenant because of his knowledge of Native American languages and his abilities as an explorer. When the party reached the Illinois River; Aco, Hennepin and another man were sent to explore the upper Mississippi. During their exploration they became the first Europeans to see Saint Anthony Falls. They were later captured by Sioux Indians and held until the influence of Daniel Greysolon, Sieur du Lhut allowed them to be realeased. After his exploring days were over, Aco settled in Illinois and became a trader, marrying the daughter of a Kaskaskia chief in 1693.