Juan Ponce de León

This biography introduces young readers to the life of Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León. Readers learn about his early education as a page and a squire to Pedro Núñez de Guzmán and his early inspirations, such as Christopher Columbus's stories of reaching the Indies by sailing west across the Atlantic Ocean. Readers also learn that many historians believe Ponce de León joined Columbus's second voyage to the New World, which set sail from Cádiz, Spain. Ponce de León's time on...
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This biography introduces young readers to the life of Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León. Readers learn about his early education as a page and a squire to Pedro Núñez de Guzmán and his early inspirations, such as Christopher Columbus's stories of reaching the Indies by sailing west across the Atlantic Ocean. Readers also learn that many historians believe Ponce de León joined Columbus's second voyage to the New World, which set sail from Cádiz, Spain. Ponce de León's time on Hispaniola, his military service, and his family life are also discussed. Engaging text details Ponce de León's expedition to Puerto Rico for King Ferdinand II, who allowed Ponce de León to colonize the island. A detailed map allows readers to follow Ponce de León's expedition to the island of Bimini in search of the Fountain of Youth. Readers discover that Ponce de León explored the Bahamas, named Florida, discovered the Gulf Stream, and explored the Florida Keys. Ponce de León's death in Cuba is also introduced, as is his legacy today in Puerto Rico. Full-color photos, an index, a timeline, discussion questions, bold glossary terms, and phonetics accompany easy-to-read text.