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The popular image of Louisiana in the nineteenth century
Dennis, David Christopher
Dennis, David Christopher
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[Fort Worth, Tex.] : Texas Christian University,
Date
2013
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Abstract
This dissertation describes the popular image of Louisiana as presented in nonfiction American books and magazines during the nineteenth century. Contemporary accounts, often written for and by Anglo-Americans, shaped the image of the state to reflect the interests and preconceptions of the American public. Many accounts stressed Louisiana's agricultural and commercial advantages, in part to inform and encourage potential immigrants from other states. Louisiana's French population (both Creole and Acadian) fascinated and frustrated observers who sometimes described this "foreign" element as an obstacle to process and proper development of the state. Writers described how Anglo-Americans clashed with the native population as the immigrants gradually came to dominate the state's economy and government. Slavery formed a ubiquitous part of the image. Observers detailed the state's dependence on slave labor and sometimes accused Louisiana slave owners of cruelty. New Orleans held particular importance to contemporary observers. The city exemplified the economic potential of Louisiana and also provided the clearest example of the clash between the Old World culture of the French Creoles and the Anglo-American values. As with most aspects of Louisiana's image, American notions of morality and progress shaped many descriptions of the city.
Contents
Subject
Subject(s)
Popular culture Louisiana.
Louisiana History.
Louisiana Description and travel.
Louisiana Social life and customs 19th century.
New Orleans (La.) Social life and customs.
Creoles Louisiana Social life and customs 19th century.
Cajuns Louisiana Social life and customs 19th century.
Louisiana History.
Louisiana Description and travel.
Louisiana Social life and customs 19th century.
New Orleans (La.) Social life and customs.
Creoles Louisiana Social life and customs 19th century.
Cajuns Louisiana Social life and customs 19th century.
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Dissertation
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History