The Search for the Seven Cities of Gold
The Search for the Seven Cities of Gold is a Grade 5 history skill from Pengi Social Studies. Students learn about Spanish conquistadors, especially Francisco Vasquez de Coronado, who explored the American Southwest in the 1540s searching for mythical cities of gold, leading to major geographical discoveries.
Key Concepts
Stories of great wealth drove explorers north. Francisco Vásquez de Coronado led a massive expedition into what is now the American Southwest, searching for the legendary "Seven Cities of Gold.".
Although he never found gold, his journey allowed Spain to claim a vast territory. He was the first European to see the Grand Canyon and the herds of buffalo on the Great Plains.
Common Questions
What were the Seven Cities of Gold?
The Seven Cities of Gold (Cibola) were legendary cities rumored to be fabulously wealthy. Spanish explorers believed they existed somewhere in the Americas.
Who led the expedition to find the Seven Cities of Gold?
Francisco Vasquez de Coronado led a large Spanish expedition through the American Southwest from 1540 to 1542 searching for the cities of gold.
Did Coronado find the Seven Cities of Gold?
No. Coronado found only modest Pueblo villages. He never found great riches, but his expedition mapped vast new territory.
What was the significance of Coronado exploration?
Coronado expanded Spanish knowledge of North America, exploring present-day Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, and Kansas, and establishing Spain claim to the region.
What grade covers the search for the Seven Cities of Gold?
This is a Grade 5 social studies history topic.