Vasco Nunez de Balboa

Vasco Núñez de Balboa was born to a noble but impoverished family in Jerez de los Caballeros, Extremadura, Spain.

Balboa received a basic education in the military arts and navigation, typical for young noblemen of his time.

Balboa joined the expedition of Rodrigo de Bastidas, exploring the northern coast of South America and the Caribbean islands.

After the expedition, Balboa settled in Santo Domingo, Hispaniola, where he attempted to farm but was unsuccessful.

To escape his creditors, Balboa stowed away on a ship bound for the Darién region, on the Isthmus of Panama.

Balboa and Martín Fernández de Enciso founded the settlement of Santa María la Antigua del Darién, the first permanent European settlement on the mainland of the Americas.

Balboa was appointed governor of Darién, consolidating his power and influence in the region.

Balboa led an expedition to the Pearl Islands, where he acquired pearls and gold, further enhancing his reputation.

Balboa led an expedition across the Isthmus of Panama, becoming the first European to see the Pacific Ocean from the American continent.

After his successful Pacific expedition, Balboa returned to Santa María la Antigua, planning further explorations.

Balboa married María de Peñalosa, a Spanish noblewoman, solidifying his social and political status.

Balboa began preparations for new expeditions to explore the Pacific coast and establish more settlements.

Balboa's relationship with Pedro Arias Dávila, the new governor, deteriorated, leading to political tension and accusations.

Balboa was arrested and imprisoned on charges of treason and conspiracy against the governor Pedro Arias Dávila.

Vasco Núñez de Balboa was executed by beheading in Acla, on the orders of Pedro Arias Dávila, ending his life and career.