DeSoto, Hernando Publique Deposited
Born ca. 1496, d. 5/21/1542.
Married Isabel Davila; brother-in-law to Vasco Nunez de Balboa. Sailed to Peru in 1532 and returned to Spain with stolen treasure. Given title governor of Cuba by Charles V in 1536. Sailed to Cuba April 6, 1538. Sailed north in May 1539 and landed in Charlotte Bay, Florida. Travelled north and west exploring. He lived off supplies captured and extorted from the natives. On May 21, 1541, he discovered the Mississippi River. He died one year later near Ferriday, Louisiana. An illustration of DeSoto discovering the Mississippi appears on the reverse of the $10 National Bank Note, series of 1875.
Bio: DAB; WAB; WWWA-H
- Jerez de los Caballeros, Spain
- 1542-05-21