What did Vasco Núñez de Balboa accomplish during his exploration?
In 1513, Balboa led an expedition from Darién to search for a new sea reportedly to the south and for gold. He hoped that if he was successful, he would win the favor of Ferdinand, the king of Spain. While he didn’t find the precious metal, he did see the Pacific Ocean and claimed it and all of its shores for Spain.
What did Vasco Nunez de Balboa do for Spain?
Vasco Núñez de Balboa. In 1513, while leading an expedition in search of gold, he sighted the Pacific Ocean. Balboa claimed the ocean and all of its shores for Spain, opening the way for later Spanish exploration and conquest along the western coast of South America. Balboa’s achievement and ambition posed a threat to Pedro Arias Dávila,…
What happened after Fernández de Enciso’s ouster?
After Fernández de Enciso’s ouster, a more open government was established and a municipal council was elected (the first in the Americas). Two alcaldes were appointed: Martín Samudio and Vasco Núñez de Balboa. Shortly after this, a flotilla led by Rodrigo Enrique de Colmenares arrived in Santa María.
Why did Fernández de Enciso decide to take Balboa with him?
Before the expedition arrived at San Sebastián de Urabá, Fernández de Enciso discovered Balboa aboard the ship, and threatened to leave him at the first uninhabited island they encountered. He later reconsidered this and decided that Balboa’s knowledge of that region, which he had explored eight years before, would be of great utility.
What was Vasco Balboa early life like?
Early Life and Career of Vasco Núñez de Balboa Balboa was born in 1475 in Jerez de los Caballeros, a town in the impoverished Extremadura region of Spain. His father was believed to be a nobleman, but the family was not wealthy; like many of his class, Balboa decided to seek his fortune in the New World.