May 21

Hernando de Soto was born around 1496 in Spain and rose to prominence as a soldier in the Americas. He participated in the conquest of Central America and became known for his battlefield prowess. In 1539, de Soto embarked on an expedition that explored vast regions of present-day Florida, Georgia, and beyond. His journey marked the first European contact with the Mississippi River. Despite hardships, he sought gold and new territories for Spain. De Soto’s expedition profoundly impacted indigenous populations and shaped subsequent European colonization efforts.

Elizabeth Poole was born in 1588 in England and emigrated to the Plymouth Colony in the early 17th century. In 1639, she acquired land along the Taunton River and established the town of Taunton, Massachusetts, naming it after her birthplace. As one of the first English women to found a town in New England, Poole played a significant role in its planning and settlement. She was known for her leadership and negotiation skills with both English colonists and Native American tribes. Her pioneering efforts paved the way for future female settlers and left a lasting legacy in Massachusetts history.

Harry Bensley was an English entrepreneur best known for his extraordinary wager challenge. In 1905, he accepted a bet that required him to travel the world incognito, wearing an iron mask, pushing a perambulator carrying £1,000. The rules forbade him from identifying himself or removing his mask until specific conditions were met. Although he covered thousands of miles, the journey was cut short by illness, and he never completed the challenge. Bensley's daring attempt captured public imagination and inspired tales of adventure. He continued his business ventures in England afterwards. He died on May 21, 1956, remembered for his audacious spirit and enduring legend.