Vázquez de Coronado was a Spanish explorer born in 1510. He is best known for leading an expedition in the 1540s that explored the southwestern region of what is now the United States. His journey aimed to find the legendary Seven Cities of Gold, which were rumored to be rich in treasures. During his expedition, Coronado traveled through present-day Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, and Kansas. Although he did not find the gold he sought, he made significant discoveries, including the Grand Canyon and various Native American tribes. His explorations contributed to European knowledge of the North American interior.