Hernando de Soto, a prominent Spanish conquistador known for his expeditions in the Americas, embarked on his most ambitious journey in 1539 by landing in Florida. With a fleet of ships and approximately 600 men, De Soto aimed to explore and conquer lands that were largely uncharted by Europeans. Upon his arrival, he established a claim that Florida was a Spanish territory, representing the increasing ambition of European powers in the New World during that era.

As part of his expedition, De Soto aimed to discover precious metals and establish a foothold for Spanish colonization. The landing marked not only the commencement of his journey through the southern United States but also initiated encounters with various Indigenous peoples, setting off a series of complex interactions, including trade, conflict, and resistance. De Soto's quest brought him through present-day states such as Georgia, Alabama, and Mississippi, where he sought out powerful Indigenous kingdoms, often resulting in violence as he imposed Spanish will upon native populations.

The expedition turned out to be particularly arduous, as faced with harsh conditions and defensive Indigenous tribes, De Soto's forces had a difficult time maintaining supplies and securing alliances. The extent of De Soto's journey also revealed the vast and varied landscape of the southeastern region to Europeans, paving the way for future expeditions. Ultimately, the Spanish claimed Florida and sought to expand their influence along the Atlantic coast, setting the backdrop for later settlement efforts.