Which explorer is known for capturing Montezuma?

The explorer known for capturing Montezuma is Hernán Cortés, making this answer correct. Cortés was a Spanish conquistador who led the expedition that resulted in the fall of the Aztec Empire. In 1519, he arrived in Mexico and, through a combination of military might and strategic alliances with local tribes, eventually captured Montezuma II, the emperor of the Aztecs. This significant event marked a turning point in the Spanish conquest and expansion in the New World, leading to the establishment of Spanish colonial rule in Mexico.

In contrast, other figures mentioned in the choices played different roles in the exploration of the Americas. For instance, Francisco de Soto is known for his explorations in the southeastern United States but did not have any involvement with Montezuma. Similarly, Francisco Vázquez de Coronado explored parts of the Southwestern United States, searching for the mythical Seven Cities of Gold, while Juan de Oñate is known for his exploration and settlement in New Mexico. None of these other explorers engaged directly with the Aztec Empire or Montezuma as Cortés did.