Fun Easy English - Travel the United States of America

CAPITAL CITY: Baton Rouge

BACKGROUND

Louisiana, named in honor of the French King Louis XIV, has a colorful history. In 1803, President Thomas Jefferson negotiated the Louisiana Purchase with Napoleon. It was admitted to the Union as the 18th state in 1812. A strong French influence is still evident throughout the state. Situated in the Deep South, Louisiana lies where the mighty Mississippi empties into the Gulf of Mexico. Water routes link the state with both the heart of America and lands across the sea.

The life of Louisiana is based on a mixture of many peoples, cultures and customs. Tourists visit New Orleans for the city's festive Mardi Gras, the old French Quarter and the city's jazz clubs. Other attractions include Acadiana, the homeland of the Cajuns, and magnificent old plantation homes.

QUICK FACTS

The great seal of the state of Louisiana

Nickname: Pelican State

Motto: Union, justice, and confidence

Statehood: April 30, 1812 (18th)

Origin of State's Name: Named in honor of France's King Louis XIV.

Largest Cities: New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Shreveport, Lafayette, Kenner

Border States: Arkansas, Mississippi, Texas

Land Area: 43,566 sq. mi.; 33rd largest

State Bird: Eastern Brown Pelican

State Flower: Magnolia (magnolia)

State Tree: Bald Cypress (taxodium distichum)

State Song: Give Me Louisiana

USEFUL LINKS

Miscellaneous

Travel and tourism site for Louisiana - This state travel and territorial tourism site provides ideas for your vacations, meetings, and more.