Juan Ponce de Leon sights Florida. He eventually will lead the first exploration of Florida.

It was the age of exploration. Columbus had sailed across the sea in 1492 and came back with news of a new world! Forget about settling, it’s time to explore, see what’s out there. Many Spaniards after Columbus decided to explore, and settle, the New World. The New World consisted of North America, Central America, and South America.

On this day March 27th, in 1513, Juan Ponce de Leon sees Florida from his ship. His history is badly documented, so both his date of birth and parents are ambiguous, but it is thought to be that he came from a noble wealthy family; hence, his ability to explore the world. Leon went on to become the first governor of Puerto Rico.

Leon went on to be the first to explore Florida, he named it Florida – flower.  Reportedly he was actually searching for the Fountain of Youth, a mythical fountain which is said to bring back youth, when he discovered Florida. Florida is in the southeast of the U.S. and is home to many beach towns such as Miami.