FL S1872

Recognizes the 500th anniversary of Juan Ponce de Leon's landing in Florida on April 2, 1513, and celebrates his historic journey and discovery of the state.

Honors Ponce de Leon's background as a Spanish nobleman born around 1474 who served as a soldier in Hispaniola and became Deputy Governor of the island in 1504.

Acknowledges his expedition to Puerto Rico (Borinquen) where he discovered gold, conquered the island for Spain, and served as its first governor after founding the settlement of Caparra.

Documents his 1513 voyage to Florida where he received royal permission on March 3, explored the east coast, Florida Keys, and Gulf Coast, naming the territory "La Florida" in honor of Easter Sunday (Pascua Florida in Spanish).

Recognizes Ponce de Leon's valor and his 1521 return to Florida to establish a colony, which failed due to a Native American attack that wounded him fatally.