Question

Why did Hernando de Soto explore the southeastern United States?

a) To find the Northwest Passage
b) To search for gold and wealth
c) To establish a trade route with Asia
d) To document local flora and fauna

Answer 1

Hernando de Soto explored the southeastern United States in search of gold and wealth, inspired by the successes of other conquistadors. His expedition from 1539 to 1542 was unsuccessful in finding great riches and led to the spread of European diseases among native populations.

Step-by-step explanation:

Hernando de Soto explored the southeastern United States to search for gold and wealth. Inspired by the success of earlier conquistadors like Cortés and Pizarro, who had amassed fortunes through their conquests, de Soto embarked on an expedition from 1539 to 1542 across territories that are now part of the United States, including Florida, Georgia, and several other states. De Soto's journeys had devastating effects on the native populations, as European diseases claimed the lives of thousands. Unfortunately, the grand hopes of discovering abundant gold and silver did not materialize, and de Soto died during the expedition with his surviving followers eventually returning to Mexico City without the riches they had sought.