Spanish explorer Hermando de Soto was likely the first European to

Answer 1

explore the southeastern region of the United States. He led an expedition in the mid-16th century, starting in Florida and traveling through present-day Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina. He was searching for gold and other riches, and his exploration had significant impacts on the indigenous peoples of the region. De Soto and his men encountered various Native American tribes and engaged in conflicts with them along the way. His exploration paved the way for future European colonization and settlement in the southeastern United States.