Juan Ponce de León

Juan Ponce de Leon was born in 1460. He was a Spanish explorer and soldier who sailed to Florida. During his travels, he was searching for the fountain of youth, a legendary fountain that would keep you young forever if you drank from it. He was also looking for gold and other riches.

Ponce de León sailed with Christopher Columbus on his second trip. He heard of gold in present-day Puerto Rico, and fought violently to take the island and claim it for Spain. He was fired from his job because he treated the Native Americans so badly.

Later, he continued to search for the fountain of youth and gold. At this time, he landed in Florida and named it. After leaving Florida, a fight started between Ponce de León’s men and the Native Americans.

His last expedition was in 1521. Ponce de León and his men landed in Florida, but Native American warriors were ready for them. Ponce de León was killed by an arrow.