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The area now known as Louisiana was once inhabited by many Native American tribes. In 1541, Spanish
explorer Hernando de Soto visited the region. Robert Cavelier claimed the Mississippi River valley for
France in 1682, and named the land Louisiana after King Louis XIV of France.
The first permanent settlement, Natchitoches, was created in 1714. In 1718, New Orleans was
established. Spain acquired Louisiana in 1762. Acadian refugees driven from eastern Canada by
British troops arrived in the 1760’s, and today their legacy continues among the Cajuns of Louisiana.
Following the Revolutionary War, Spain returned Louisiana to French control. The U.S. then acquired
the region via the Louisiana Purchase in 1803.
The early 19th century heralded economic growth in Louisiana from sugar cane plantations and trading
along the Mississippi River. Louisiana became a state on April 30, 1812. In 1861, Louisiana joined
the Confederacy and fought in the Civil War, during which much damage resulted for the state. After
this turbulent time, Louisiana rejoined the Union in 1868. The latter part of the 19th century brought
new industry, more ship traffic for New Orleans, and railroad expansion.
The 20th century brought great change for the Pelican State with the discovery of oil and natural
gas. Louisiana became important for ship-building during and after World War II. During the middle
of the century, Louisiana endured significant racial tensions. Eventually, however, Louisiana
witnessed the election of the first black mayor of New Orleans in 1977. The state experienced
fluctuations in its economy throughout the late 20th century, but rebounded somewhat, especially via
tourism.
Louisiana entered a sad chapter in its history on August 29, 2005, when the nation’s worst natural
disaster to date occurred. Hurricane Katrina made landfall and devastated the southern part of the
state, and decimated the city of New Orleans. This was followed by Hurricane Rita nearly a month
later. The horrific damage from ruptured levies, flooding, tremendous loss of life, and a Diaspora of
people from the area wreaked havoc upon the state and its people. However, the Pelican State has
shown its resilience by demonstrating its dedication to restoring, where possible, the unique heritage
it possesses.
Louisiana is also known for its famous inhabitants. Among celebrated Louisianans are musicians
Fats Domino, Louis Armstrong, and Wynton Marsalis; singers Kitty Carlisle, Jerry Lee Lewis, and
Mahalia Jackson; writer Truman Capote, newscaster Bryant Gumbel, Chef Paul Prudhomme, journalist Cokie
Roberts, and actor Ray Walston.
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