In 1513, who became the first European explorer to set eyes on the Pacific Ocean?

Nuñez de Balboa was born in 1475 in Jerez de los Caballeros,Spain and unlike most conquistadors into a relatively wealthy family. By 1500, everyone was talking about the wonders of the New World and the fortunes being made there.

Balboa stowed away (with his dog) on a ship commanded by Martín Fernández de Enciso. He was discovered and talked his way out of being marooned.

Later as Governor of Veragua, he led raids against local native tribes and collected much gold and pearls. During this conquest he began to hear rumors of a great sea and rich kingdoms to the south.

In 1513 Balboa, along with about 190 Spaniards and a handful of natives decided to search for this sea. On September 25 Balboa and a handful of battle weary Spaniards became the first europeans to view the Pacific Ocean, which they named the “South Sea.” Balboa claimed the sea for Spain.

In 1519 Balboa was falsely accused of rebellion and high treason by Pedro Arias Dávila . He was found guilty condemned to death and beheaded,