Estevanico

"America's First African American Explorer"

Estevanico was a Spanish Moor from North Africa enslaved at a young age by the Portuguese and sold in 1520 to Andres Dorantes de Carranza, a Spanish nobleman. In 1527, Estevanico and Dorantes sailed from Europe with the explorer Panfilo de Narvaez on an expedition to conquer Florida. This expedition turned into one of the most epic journeys ever recorded and eventually led to Estevanico- The First recorded black man to set foot in America.

From slave to Spanish Explorer, Estevanico fell into the same role he had performed so admirably and for so long – intermediary and healer.

He was rarely seen, ranging far ahead and communicating with the friar only via messages attached to crosses.

Estevanico was a large and powerful man, blessed with a shrewd and quick mind. He was an excellent linguist and was able to quickly learn the languanges of the Native Americans. Estevanico undertook the role of scout and mediator in the explorations of the Cabeza de Vaca party.

Estevanico is truly a unsung hero and humanitarian.  His life serves as an inspiration for those who serve without recognition; forgotten because of their unselfish service for the benefit of others.  The Estevanico Awards were established by the Florida Black Chamber of Commerce Inc. to recognize Florida's unsung heroes in the area of Business, Cultural Arts, Community Service, and Lifetime Achievement. Each community served by the Florida Black Chamber of Commerce Inc. are authorized to recommend, each year, one person in each category for selection.