What was one significant outcome of Hernando de Soto's explorations in the southeastern United States?

One significant outcome of Hernando de Soto's explorations in the southeastern United States was the mapping of the Mississippi River. De Soto's expedition, which took place in the 1530s, was one of the first European explorations to extensively travel through the region that includes present-day Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Arkansas, and Louisiana. During this journey, de Soto and his men were able to gather important geographic information and lay claim to many areas along the river and beyond. Their mapping efforts provided valuable insights into the topology, resources, and indigenous cultures of the region, which influenced future explorations and eventual colonization. This contribution to geography and understanding of the area was significant, as it opened the door for later European exploration and settlement in North America.