What was one of the reasons the Spanish were interested in exploring Oklahoma?

The interest of the Spanish in exploring Oklahoma was significantly driven by the quest for gold and other riches. During the age of exploration, European powers, particularly Spain, were motivated by the prospects of wealth and resources that could be obtained from the New World. Explorers and conquistadors sought out new territories where they could potentially discover gold, silver, and other valuable commodities that would enhance their standing in Europe and enrich their countries.

In the context of Oklahoma, while the area was not known to be rich in gold in the same way as parts of Mexico and South America, the Spanish explorers were nonetheless intrigued by reports of wealth and opportunities for conquest. Their expeditions were often exploratory, in hopes of finding new sources of economic advantage, which was a primary driver for many of their ventures in North America.

Other options, such as missionary work and agricultural expansion, certainly played roles in Spanish interests in the broader region, but the specific allure of gold and wealth was one of the dominant motives during the initial period of exploration.