This special series focuses on the unique contributions Hispanics have made in the United States from the earliest Spanish explorers to the many successful Latinos in contemporary America. Each book provides historical and factual easy-reading stories. The books are jam-packed with information and contain between 7500 and 9000 words.16th century Spanish nobleman who claimed Florida, Louisiana, and Texas for Spain. A shipwreck led him to endure incredible adventures living among the Native Americans for 8 years.