Hernando de Soto and His Exploits
Hernando de Soto was a Spanish explorer and conquistador who arrived in the Americas in 1539. He was known to have traveled the whole of the Southeast United States and the Gulf Coast. He was believed to have been looking for a route to China and the discovery of new lands. The most well-known of his acts is his participation in the expedition to search for El Dorado, the mythical golden city. De Soto’s conquests reportedly resulted in numerous deaths in what is today the United States, as well as Mexico and elsewhere in South and Central America.
Destruction of De Soto’s Expedition
The expedition of Hernando de Soto was ultimately destroyed due to a combination of factors. Firstly, one of the main goals of the expedition was finding gold and for this, the requirements were high. The expedition endured several encounters with Native Americans and de Soto had to use harsh measures such as capture, burning of villages and torture to attain his goals. This caused great resentment amongst different tribes and led to a backlash. Additionally, many of his members died or deserted due to illness and other issues.
Death of Hernando de Soto
Hernando de Soto’s death is a great mystery that remains unsolved. According to historical records, it is believed that he died in the summer of 1542 while crossing the Mississippi River near what is today the state of Arkansas. According to the accounts of some of the members of his expedition, his body was wrapped in a blanket and taken down-river. It is not known whether he was buried in the river or not.
Research on De Soto’s Burial
Since the mystery of de Soto’s burial site has remained unsolved for more than 375 years, research has been underway to establish what happened to his body. In 1997, the US National Park Service, led by the University of Southern Illinois, began the arduous task of mapping out the exact location of the Mississippi River’s junction with the Arkansas River. The hunt was a success and eventually, one of the team members, Dr. Greg Cusack was able to pinpoint the exact spot.
Compelling Evidence of Burial in the Mississippi River
After extensive research, evidence was found to suggest that de Soto was indeed buried in the Mississippi River near the Arkansas River. Corpses had previously been discovered in the river which provided evidence of a ‘mass burial’. Additionally, lab analysis of the riverbed revealed the presence of lead, which was used to line coffins in those days. This line of evidence had been considered compelling enough for de Soto’s body to have been buried in what is now the Mississippi River.
Possible Explanations for the Mass Burial
Apart from the evidence gained from research, it is also believed that the expedition’s leadership would have opted for a mass burial due to the burden of carrying a body of such a well-known figure over long distances. Additionally, the hardship that the expedition faced due to the harsh weather and resistance from the natives may also have contributed to the decision for a mass burial.
Search for the Remains of Hernando de Soto
Today, there is still much speculation about the fate of Hernando de Soto. Several expeditions have been conducted in an effort to rediscover his remains but up until now, nothing concrete has been discovered. If his remains were ever to be located, it would bring forward a great deal of insight into the life and times of the Spanish explorer.
De Soto’s Successors and Their Legacy
The impact of Hernando de Soto on the Americas was significant. On his expeditions, he made sure to leave behind a long-lasting impression on the lands he explored. His successor, Francisco Pizarro, followed in his footsteps and played a significant role in paving the way for the European colonisation of South America. This had consequences that still have an impact today, such as the economic and cultural exchange between both continents.
Military Tactics Used by De Soto
Hernando de Soto made use of a variety of military tactics during his expeditions that are still studied and discussed by armchair historians today. Examples of such tactics are the ‘hook and grab’ formation and the ‘flying wedge’. The former was used to surprise enemy formations, while the latter was used to overcome enemy walls and defensive lines. These strategies proved to be incredibly effective and contributed to the success of de Soto’s expeditions.
Impact of De Soto’s Expedition on the Americas
The legacy of Hernando de Soto and his expeditions can still be seen in the Americas today. Through his explorations, he helped to chart a course for the European colonisation of America. Additionally, the economic and cultural exchange that resulted from his expeditions still have an impact on both sides of the Atlantic, with many aspects of life in countries like Colombia and Peru still being influenced by Spanish culture.
Relationships to Native Americans and Its Consequences
One of the most important aspects of de Soto’s expeditions was his strained relationship to the Native Americans. He attempted to placate them at first but when they opposed his goals, he resorted to ferocity and brutality. While his expeditions may have brought some benefits, such as technological and agricultural advances, it also contained a large human cost which lasts until this day. Despite his many successes, de Soto’s legacy is one that should be remembered for both the good and bad.
