ALONSO DE OJEDA

Born in 1455, Alonso de Ojeda grew up to become a famous Spanish conquistador. Although Ojeda succeeded at a number of voyages, he is best known for sailing with Christopher Columbus on his second voyage. Then in 1499, Ojeda sailed with Vespucci while exploring South America's northeast coast.

Nine years later in 1508, Alonso de Ojeda was appointed as governor over the north South American territories. Then, Ojeda was defeated by the Native Americans near today's Cartagena. During this trying time, Diego de Nicuesa came to his rescuing, getting him out of a very bad situation.

Unfortunately, even after being rescued, Ojeda once again ran into trouble with the Native American. With this, Ojeda left his men behind under the control of Francisco Pizarro while he decided to get help in Hispaniola. He soon reached Cuba but sadly, his actions and adventures prior to reaching Cuba are very, unclear. What we do know is that Ojeda's men abandoned the colony. However, they picked Ojeda up fairly close to Cartagena where he ended his life of exploration.