Jean Baptiste Point du Sable is considered the first permanent resident and founder of Chicago. Born around 1745 in Saint-Marc, Saint-Domingue (now Haiti), Point du Sable was of African descent, likely of Haitian and African descent, and possibly of French descent as well. He was a fur trader and settler who established a trading post and farm at the mouth of the Chicago River in the 1780s.

Point du Sable is credited with playing a significant role in the early history of Chicago, laying the foundation for the city's development. He was known for his kind and hospitable nature, as well as his business acumen and skills as a trader. Point du Sable's trading post attracted settlers and traders to the area, contributing to the growth and development of the town that would eventually become Chicago.

Despite his important contributions to the early history of Chicago, Point du Sable faced financial difficulties and was forced to sell his property and move to Missouri in his later years. He passed away in 1818, and his legacy was largely forgotten for many years. However, in the 20th century, efforts were made to recognize and celebrate his contributions to the founding of Chicago and Black history.

Today, Jean Baptiste Point du Sable is remembered as a pioneering figure in the history of Chicago and a symbol of African American achievement and resilience. Numerous monuments and commemorations have been dedicated to him, and he is widely acknowledged as a key figure in the history of the city and the United States.