Why did Hernando de soto explorer Arkansas?

Hernando de Soto explored Arkansas in 1541 during his expedition through the southeastern United States in search of gold and other riches. He aimed to claim new territories for Spain and to establish trade routes. The region's fertile land and the presence of Native American tribes made it an area of particular interest for potential conquest and resources. De Soto's journey contributed to the European awareness of the Mississippi River and the cultures of the indigenous peoples living there.