Who discovered Florida during the early 16th century?

Juan Ponce de Leon is recognized for his exploration of Florida during the early 16th century. He is often credited with the European discovery of the region when he arrived in 1513. Ponce de Leon was a Spanish explorer and conquistador who was searching for the Fountain of Youth, a legendary spring that supposedly restored the youth of anyone who drank from it. His expeditions contributed significantly to the Spanish colonization of the Americas, and he is an important figure in the history of Florida, marking the beginning of European interest in the area. Ponce de Leon's journey laid the foundation for future exploration and settlement by other Europeans in the region.