This is where they explored. A common practice when explorers land in a place was to claim it. We did that in 1969 on the Moon by leaving a flag there.
Mainly riches and gold, but they got much more by laying claim to the land.
To claim land for Spain. ;)
Spanish explorers wanted to claim Florida for Spain, because they wanted to be the dominant force in the New World and control St. Augustine's natural resources.
1835
They wanted to claim land for themselves.
French explorers were the first Europeans to explore and claim Iowa in the 17th century. They were followed by Spanish, British, and American explorers over the years.
Spanish explorers set out for the Americas in search of new trade routes to Asia, as well as to spread Christianity and establish colonies for economic gain. They were also motivated by the desire for fame and glory, as well as the opportunity to claim new territories for the Spanish crown.
the explorers planted flags to claim land for their country
ooga booga
The main goals of the Spanish explorers were to establish a foothold in the New World. In addition to acquiring new lands, the explorers set out to expand their empire. This was done by building trade and commerce with the local natives, along with converting many of them to Catholicism. Sadly, there were many native and Spanish conflicts that led to mass bloodshed across the continent.
Spain sent explorers to claim land south and west of the Mississippi River, primarily for the purposes of gold, ranching, and farming. Notable explorers such as Hernando de Soto ventured into this region during the 16th century. Their expeditions aimed to expand Spanish territory and exploit the resources of the New World, including agricultural land and precious metals.