Who was the Spanish explorer that discovered Florida while searching for the fountain of youth?

The Spanish explorer who discovered Florida while searching for the legendary Fountain of Youth was Juan Ponce de León. He is known for his exploration of the southeastern coast of what is now the United States in the early 1500s. Ponce de León's quest for the Fountain of Youth, which was thought to confer eternal youth and vitality, was motivated by both myth and the desire for wealth and acclaim. His expedition led him to land in Florida in 1513, which he named, marking the first recorded European contact with the region.

Ponce de León's exploration is significant as it represents one of the early attempts by Europeans to explore and settle in North America. His journey not only contributed to the mapping of the area but also set the stage for future Spanish exploration and colonization in the continent. His association with the Fountain of Youth has made him a prominent figure in myths surrounding exploration, reflecting the fascination of the time with adventure and the search for new, fantastical discoveries.