Hernando de Soto

Hernando de Soto (c. 1500-1542) was a Spanish explorer and conquistador who led the first European expedition deep into the territory of the modern-day United States. He is most famous for being the first documented European to cross the Mississippi River.

Early Life and Career

Born in Extremadura, Spain, de Soto initially made his fortune in Central and South America, participating in the conquest of the Inca Empire alongside Francisco Pizarro. His success in these ventures provided him with the wealth and reputation needed to organize his own expedition.

Expedition to North America

In 1539, de Soto landed in Florida with approximately 600 men, horses, and supplies. His expedition would become one of the most extensive explorations of the North American continent by Europeans up to that time.

Key Achievements:

• First European to cross the Mississippi River (1541)
• Explored much of the southeastern United States
• Traveled through present-day Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Arkansas, and Louisiana
• Encountered numerous Native American tribes and civilizations

Discovery of the Mississippi River

De Soto's most significant achievement was the European discovery of the Mississippi River in May 1541. His expedition crossed the mighty river near present-day Memphis, Tennessee, becoming the first Europeans to document this major waterway.

Legacy and Impact

Although de Soto died of fever in 1542 before completing his expedition, his journey provided Europeans with valuable knowledge about the North American interior. His detailed accounts of Native American civilizations and the geography of the Southeast became important historical records.

Death and Burial

De Soto died along the Mississippi River in 1542. To prevent Native Americans from discovering his death and potentially attacking the weakened expedition, his men secretly buried his body in the Mississippi River at night.