Juan Ponce de León

Juan Ponce de León was a Spanish explorer and conquistador known for his quest to discover the mythical Fountain of Youth, which was said to grant eternal youth. Born around 1460, he was the first European to set foot in Florida in 1513, claiming it for Spain. Ponce de León played a significant role in early Spanish exploration of the Americas. His journeys contributed to European knowledge of the Caribbean and southeastern United States. He is often remembered for his adventurous spirit and the impact of his explorations on Spanish colonial efforts. He died in 1521 from injuries sustained in conflict.