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.
The first European country to claim land in what is now the United States was Spain. In the early 16th century, Spanish explorers, notably Juan Ponce de León, claimed Florida for Spain in 1513. This marked the beginning of Spanish territorial claims in the region, which would expand over the following centuries.
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
Spain sent explorers to claim land south and west of the Mississippi River for gold, ranching, and farming. Notable figures such as Hernando de Soto and later, explorers like La Salle, ventured into this region during the 16th and 17th centuries, seeking wealth and new territories for the Spanish Crown. Their expeditions laid the groundwork for Spanish colonization in the southern and western parts of North America.
ooga booga