He gained a reputation as a ruthless soldier in the conquest of Cuba in 1511; later, as governor, he watched his men slaughter some 2500 unarmed Cubans. When he was sent to fetch the rebellious Cortés in Mexico in 1520, most of his men deserted, and he lost an eye in the ensuing battle. Leading an expedition to Florida in 1528, he ignored advice from his lieutenant, Cabeza de Vaca, divided his forces, and was lost at sea trying to return to Cuba in makeshift boats.