Juan Ponce De Leon
By: Greta, Jerry and Mallory
Ponce de Leon's Place of Birth and Childhood
Ponce de Leon was born in Spain in 1460. Ponce de Leon was born into a Noble Family. Ponce de Leon decided to become a soldier at an early age but then decided to become an explorer and become adventurous. Ponce de Leon also began his exploration career as a part of Christopher Columbus' second expedition in the New World.
Country Explored
Ponce de Leon explored the Southwest part of the United States. Leon and his men tried to get to Bimini but ended up going the wrong way and ended up in Florida. They were searching around in Florida and unfortunately they didn't find the Fountain of Youth, instead Ponce de Leon found the Gulf Stream which flows out of the Gulf of Mexico.
Motivation
Ponce De Leon was motivated by his cousin, Christopher Columbus and his neighbor Vasco Da Gama. In 1493 he accompanied Columbus on his second expedition to the Americas. Due to a disagreement between Ponce de Leon and his cousin, he did not return home but remained in Santo Domingo, which is now known as the Dominican Republic.
Treatment of Native Americans
De Leon treated the Native Americans terribly. De Leon and his men would force them to dig and find gold. He also started a tiny battle a against the Native Americans.
Fun Facts
Ponce De Leon was the first European to set foot on the peninsula of Florida. He wanted to stay in San Diego instead of returning home with Christopher Columbus. Ponce De Leon was a great explorer and was known for some of his favorite times exploring Florida. His favorite color is blue, because it was the colour of the teddy bear that was given to him as a child. It was also the colour of the sky, which he often layed down to gaze at.