Who was the Spanish explorer that established a series of forts in Florida and built the first fort at St. Augustine?

The answer is correct because Don Pedro Menéndez de Avilés was the Spanish explorer who established the first permanent European settlement in North America at St. Augustine, Florida, in 1565. He was commissioned by King Philip II of Spain to explore the territories and secure Spain's interests in the region. Menéndez's establishment of forts along the Florida coastline was crucial for protecting Spanish interests from rival nations and indigenous tribes.

St. Augustine is significant as it is considered the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the continental United States. Menéndez’s strategic military and settlement efforts laid the foundation for future Spanish expansion in the southeastern parts of North America. This accomplishment distinguished him from other explorers like Hernán Cortés, who was known for his conquests in Mexico, and Juan Ponce de León, who is famous for exploring Florida but did not establish any forts. Christopher Columbus, while pivotal in the age of exploration, did not venture into Florida or establish settlements there.