Hernando de Soto By sydney shankman 1500 Hernando was born Hernando de Soto was born in spain 1537 Hernando is granted the right to explore May 25, 1539 Hernando and his men spotted the West coast of Florida Mar 3, 1540 de Soto and his men depart from the Appalachie Mar 23, 1540 Came to the chiefdom of Toa Jul 14, 1540 Hernando crosses into Tennessee valley Aug 20, 1540 Departed from Cosa May 21, 1542 Hernando dies