Juan Ponce de León, a prominent Spanish explorer and conquistador, set sail from Spain in search of new opportunities and land to colonize. Leading a group of approximately 200 prospective colonists, his expedition was not only an exploration mission but also an attempt to establish a permanent Spanish presence in the newly encountered Florida region. This venture was a continuation of Ponce de León's quest for wealth and power, following his earlier successes in the Caribbean, including his notable role in the conquest of Puerto Rico.

The idea of colonizing Florida was fueled by various economic and strategic interests, as Spain was eager to expand its empire in the New World. During this period, Florida was seen as a land of potential riches, and rumors of gold and other valuables spurred many expeditions. De León's previous expeditions and reputation helped to attract colonists who were eager for adventure and wealth. His journey was one of hope and expectation, reflecting the broader European interest in exploring and claiming new territories.

As the expedition launched, the presence of a large group of settlers marked a significant step toward establishing European settlements in North America. Florida, which had been previously visited by explorers including Ponce de León himself in the early 1510s, was still relatively uncharted territory. This mission aimed not only to uncover resources but also to establish a foothold for future Spanish settlers, which would eventually lead to further exploration and colonization efforts in the region. The interactions between the Spanish colonists and Native American tribes were also set to evolve as a result of this expedition, marking the beginning of a complex and often tumultuous relationship between the two cultures.