"... they say that in New Orleans is to be found a mixture of all the nations. ... But in the midst of this confusion what race dominates and gives direction to all the rest?"

Society & Culture

The settlement of New Orleans is distinctive from that of any other city in the United States. The combination of people, cultures, languages, and traditions creates a unique society that is often referred to as Creole. Creole is a complex word that has changed meaning over time. Originally used to refer to the children of French and Spanish blood born in New Orleans, the word now represents "the synthesis of the various cultures in the unique New Orleans melting pot."1 It is definitively descriptive of the new and old world syncretism of New Orleans.

This mix of cultures from the earliest days of settlement has had a profound impact on the city as a whole. Black and white races intermingled and influenced each other's traditions and practices. Interracial relationships were not uncommon, resulting in a large population of "free people of color," since wealthy French aristocrats did not like the idea of enslaving their own children. This community had a great influence of the culture of New Orleans, especially in the areas of art and music. The voodoo religion came out of a combination of African tradition and Catholic practices. Some of the more recognizable elements of the influence of this culture include Creole cooking and jazz music.

The primary religion in the area was, and continues to be, Roman Catholicism. Colonization by both the French and the Spanish emphasized Catholicism and made it the state religion of the colony. Although Catholicism is no longer the official religion of New Orleans, its influence can still be felt. For example, the tradition of All Saints' Day, celebrated on November 1st, continues to be an important day of observance for both Catholics and non-Catholics alike. Families of the deceased visit and care for the tombs. Tomb repair and whitewashing were once common practices as well as decorating with flowers and immortelles.2

The first Mardi Gras parade was held in 1838. Mardi Gras, or Fat Tuesday, is a grand celebration in New Orleans. This day marks the last day before the Catholic season of Lent begins. Traditions include family gatherings, parades, and costumes. In recent years the celebration has expanded to include thousands of tourists descending upon New Orleans to engage in partying and revelry.

Opening quote: Alexis de Tocqueville, Journey to America, Trans. George Lawrence; Ed. J. P. Mayer, Westport, Conn: Greenwood Press, 1981.

1. See Lyle Saxon, Edward Dreyer and Robert Tallant, Gumbo Ya Ya (New York: Bonanza Books, 1945), p. 138-9. and George F Reinecke, "The National and Cultural Groups of New Orleans" in Louisiana Folklife, edited by Nicholas R. Spitzer (Baton Rouge: The Louisiana Folklife Program, 1985).Back

2. Samuel Wilson Jr. and Leonard V. Huber, The St. Louis Cemeteries of New Orleans (New Orleans: St. Louis Cathedral, 1963), p.40. Back