State Abbreviation: LA

Capital: Frankfort

Name Origin: Louisiana was named after King Louis XIV when the land was claimed for France in 1682.

Nickname: Pelican State

Statehood: April 30, 1812 (18th State)

State Motto: Union, justice, and confidence

Louisiana boasts a captivating and vibrant history that spans several centuries. Early explorations by Spanish adventurers such as Alvárez Piñeda in 1519, Ãlvar Núñez Cabeza de Vaca in 1528, and Hernando de Soto in 1541 marked the initial encounters with the land. Later, Sieur de la Salle claimed the vast region drained by the Mississippi River and its tributaries for Louis XIV of France in 1682, heralding a new era of French influence.

Throughout its history, Louisiana experienced a series of shifts in sovereignty. It became a French crown colony in 1731 but was eventually ceded to Spain in 1763 following the French and Indian Wars. In 1800, Louisiana reverted to French control, only to be sold to the United States as part of the historic Louisiana Purchase in 1803. The southern portion, known as the territory of Orleans, achieved statehood and became Louisiana in 1812.

During the Civil War, Louisiana joined the Confederacy, yet the city of New Orleans was captured by Union forces under Admiral David Farragut in April 1862. The state faced significant challenges during the Reconstruction era, but the dawn of the 20th century brought renewed prosperity with the discovery of oil and natural gas reserves, fostering growth in the industrial sector.

Today, Louisiana stands as a prominent producer of natural gas, salt, petroleum, and sulfur, with offshore deposits yielding substantial resources. The state's fertile lands support abundant crops, including sweet potatoes, rice, sugar cane, pecans, soybeans, corn, and cotton. The manufacturing sector thrives, encompassing chemicals, processed food, petroleum products, paper, lumber, transportation equipment, and apparel.

Louisiana has also become a renowned tourist destination. The city of New Orleans entices visitors with its picturesque French Quarter and hosts the world-famous annual Mardi Gras celebration, a cherished tradition since 1838. Notable attractions in the state include the iconic Superdome, historic plantation homes near Natchitoches and New Iberia, the captivating Cajun country in the Mississippi Delta Region, the historic Chalmette National Historic Park, and the state capital of Baton Rouge.

However, Louisiana faced significant challenges in recent history. Hurricane Katrina struck on August 29, 2005, devastating New Orleans and causing widespread destruction. The slow and inadequate response from federal and local officials drew widespread criticism. Nevertheless, Louisiana has shown resilience and determination in rebuilding and moving forward from this tragic event, further exemplifying the spirit and tenacity of its people.

• Famous folks from the Pelican State include civil rights activist Madam C.J. Walker, talk show host Ellen DeGeneres, and many jazz and blues performers such as Fats Domino, Louis Armstrong, and Jelly Roll Morton.
  
• Louisiana is known for its unique Creole (a mix of Spanish, French, African, and other) cuisine, including Jambalaya—a mixture of spicy rice, meat, and seafood.
  
• Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve includes a War of 1812 battlefield with reenactments and a national cemetery; a wetland preserve (where Louisiana’s state bird, the brown pelican, can be spotted); and several cultural centers that tell the history of Louisiana’s people, art and music.
  
• Reptiles must be kept at least 200 yards away from the Mardi Gras parade route.

1. Explore the French Quarter in New Orleans: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the French Quarter, filled with historic buildings, lively jazz clubs, and delectable Creole cuisine. Stroll along the charming streets, visit iconic landmarks like Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral, and experience the unique blend of cultures that defines New Orleans.
2. Take a swamp tour: Embark on a thrilling swamp tour and venture into Louisiana's enchanting wetlands. Encounter fascinating wildlife, including alligators, turtles, and various bird species, as you glide through the bayous and marshes. Learn about the diverse ecosystems and the importance of preserving these precious habitats.
3. Visit plantation homes: Discover the grandeur and history of Louisiana's plantation homes. Take a tour of antebellum estates like Oak Alley Plantation, Nottoway Plantation, or Laura Plantation, and learn about the region's complex past, including the lives of enslaved people and the legacy of the sugar and cotton industries.
4. Enjoy Cajun and Creole cuisine: Indulge in the rich and flavorful culinary traditions of Louisiana. Sample mouthwatering dishes such as gumbo, jambalaya, crawfish étouffée, and beignets. Visit local restaurants, attend food festivals, and savor the unique blend of Cajun and Creole flavors that have made Louisiana a food lover's paradise.
5. Experience Mardi Gras: Join in the festive spirit of Mardi Gras, a legendary celebration that takes place annually in Louisiana. Enjoy colorful parades, elaborate costumes, lively music, and a sense of revelry like no other. Whether in New Orleans or other cities across the state, immerse yourself in the excitement and pageantry of this iconic event.