René Auguste Chouteau, Jr. (September 7, 1749, or September 26, 1750, in New Orleans, French Louisiana – February 24, 1829, in St. Louis, Missouri), also known as Auguste Chouteau, was the founder of St. Louis, Missouri, a successful fur trader and a politician. He and his partner had a monopoly for many years of fur trade with the large Osage tribe on the Missouri River. In addition, he had numerous business interests in St. Louis and was well-connected with the various rulers: French, Spanish and American.