Which Spanish explorer is credited with bringing horses back to North America?

Hernán Cortés is credited with bringing horses back to North America as part of his expedition during the early 16th century. When Cortés arrived in the Aztec Empire in 1519, he brought a number of horses with him. This introduction was significant, as it marked the reintroduction of horses to the continent, which had been absent since the prehistoric era.

The presence of horses had a profound impact on the indigenous peoples of North America, transforming their modes of transportation and warfare. The Spanish utilized horses effectively during their conquests, which also influenced the subsequent spread of horses among Native American tribes.

In contrast, other explorers like Columbus brought horses to the New World on his voyages, but they did not focus on North America specifically or their impact there as significantly as Cortés did in his interactions with the Aztecs. Pizarro was more focused on South America, and Magellan's journey primarily dealt with oceanic exploration rather than bringing horses into new territories. This context highlights why the correct answer identifies Cortés as the key figure associated with the reintroduction of horses to North America.