Events with tag - 16th Century

February 23, 1540

Coronado's Expedition to the American Southwest

In 1540, Spanish conquistador Francisco Vásquez de Coronado led a massive expedition of over 1,000 people through the American Southwest, searching for the mythical Seven Cities of Gold. While the legendary cities were never found, the two-year journey resulted in the first detailed European documentation of the region's geography, indigenous peoples, and natural resources.

May 8, 1541

Discovery of Mississippi River

Spanish conquistador Hernando de Soto became the first European to discover and document the Mississippi River, which he named 'Río del Espíritu Santo' (River of the Holy Spirit), marking a pivotal moment in North American exploration history.

May 8, 1541

De Soto Discovers Mississippi River

Spanish conquistador Hernando de Soto became the first documented European to discover the Mississippi River near present-day Memphis, Tennessee. The expedition spent 30 days crossing the mile-wide river with 400 men and 200 horses, marking a pivotal moment in North American exploration.

January 1, 1550

Tunica Tribe Settlement on Mississippi River

The Tunica tribe established their first settlements along the Mississippi River in the late 16th century, creating a significant cultural and economic center that would shape the Lower Mississippi Valley's history.