10 Interesting Facts about Hernando de Soto


Facts about Hernando de Soto tell us about the famous Spanish explorer who had exploration on the present day Florida, Alabama, Georgia and probably Arkansas. De Soto was born circa 1495 and died on 21st May 1542. He also took the record as the first European who crossed Mississippi River. De Soto also led an expedition to reach the passage of China and southeastern US to look for gold. Why don’t you check the whole post below for more information about De Soto?

Facts about Hernando de Soto 1: the death

In 1542, De Soto passed away at the present day Guachoya, Arkansas or Ferriday, Louisiana on the banks of Mississippi River.

Facts about Hernando De Soto 2: parents

Both of his parents were hidalgos. He was from a family with modest background. The people in his neighborhood live poorly. Therefore, the people tried to change their life by finding fortune in other regions.

Facts about Hernando de Soto
Facts about Hernando de Soto

Facts about Hernando De Soto 3: the birthplace

The birthplace of de Soto was located in the current province of Badajoz. It was called Jerez de los Caballeros in the past. However, there are three towns claimed to be the birthplace of de Soto. They are Jerez de los Caballeros, Barcarrota and Badajoz.

Facts about Hernando de Soto 4: the journey to the New World

De Soto had his voyage along with Pedrarias Dávila, the first Governor of Panama to reach the New World.

Hernando de Soto Burial
Hernando de Soto Burial

Facts about Hernando de Soto 5: expedition

He took part in an expedition to reach Verague in 1520. It was led by Gaspar de Espinosa. He was also member of Francisco Hernandez de Cordoba’s crew when conquering Nicaragua in 1524.

Facts about Hernando de Soto 6: the hallmarks of de Soto

The hallmarks of de Soto were characterized by the unwavering loyalty and courageous leadership when he tried to occupy Central America.

Hernando de Soto 1791
Hernando de Soto 1791

Facts about Hernando de Soto 7: excellent traits

De Soto was also recognized as a wonderful tactician. He also fought well. Riding the horse was one of his special traits.

Facts about Hernando De Soto 8: inspiration

De Soto had been inspired by the previous explorers. One of them was Juan Ponce de León since he was the first European explorer who arrived in Florida. Others included Ferdinand Magellan and Vasco Nunez de Balboa.

de Soto
de Soto

Facts about Hernando de Soto 9: a post in Nicaragua

When he was in Nicaragua, he earned a post in Leon.

Facts about Hernando de Soto 10: namesakes

There are a number of counties, towns, parks and institutions named after de Soto. They include The De Soto School in Arkansas, DeSoto State Park in Alabama, DeSoto automobile and Fort De Soto Park in Pinellas County of Florida.

Are you impressed after reading facts about Hernando de Soto?


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