Hernando De Soto Collection
"Hernando de Soto: Exploring Florida and Discovering the Mighty Mississippi" In 1539
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"Hernando de Soto: Exploring Florida and Discovering the Mighty Mississippi" In 1539, Hernando de Soto embarked on a remarkable journey that would forever shape the history of America. As a Spanish conquistador, he set foot in uncharted territory, venturing into the wild lands of Florida. His expedition aimed to conquer new territories and seek unimaginable riches. De Soto's exploration was not without its challenges. Facing treacherous landscapes and hostile encounters with Native American tribes, his determination remained unwavering. The litho "Death of De Soto" depicts the tragic end to his quest, highlighting the sacrifices made by this intrepid explorer. One of De Soto's most significant achievements was discovering the mighty Mississippi River in 1541. This momentous event is captured in various artworks such as "DeSoto Discovering the Mississippi" (1914) and "Explorers: Hernando De Soto on the Mississippi River" (1931). These prints immortalize his groundbreaking discovery that would later become an integral part of American history. The engraving titled "De Sotos Discovery of the Mississippi" showcases this pivotal moment from a different perspective, emphasizing its historical significance for future generations to appreciate. A portrait dating back to c1520-1540 reveals Hernando De Soto adorned in traditional Spanish armor—a testament to his status as a formidable warrior during this era. This depiction offers us insight into both his appearance and military prowess. After years spent exploring unknown lands, De Soto met his final resting place beneath United States Capitol's Rotunda frieze created by Constantino Brumidi between 1860-1873. The burial scene pays homage to this brave explorer who fearlessly ventured into uncharted territories for glory and wealth. Throughout history, artists have sought inspiration from De Sotos' exploits.