Who led the first expedition for settlement in Georgia?

The first expedition for settlement in Georgia was led by James Oglethorpe. He was a British general and the founder of the colony of Georgia, established in 1733. Oglethorpe envisioned Georgia as a place for the poor and debtors of England, as well as a buffer against Spanish Florida and French expansion. His leadership in the founding expedition included the establishment of Savannah as the first city of the colony.

Understanding the context of the 18th century, Oglethorpe's efforts were significant in shaping the early governance, social structure, and economy of Georgia. He organized the settlers, negotiated treaties with Native American tribes, and implemented unique regulations that distinguished Georgia from other colonies.

The other individuals mentioned are notable historical figures but did not lead the initial settlement of Georgia. Christopher Columbus was famously associated with the discovery of the Americas but did not focus on Georgia. Hernando de Soto was an early Spanish explorer known for his expeditions through the southeastern United States in the 1540s, long before Georgia was settled. Junípero Serra was a Spanish missionary who founded missions in California, several years after Georgia's establishment.