AMER320

Since 1803, Louisana has been a case study of how closely the United States is linked to cultures and countries around the globe. While Louisana is often famous for its "creole" cooking and culture, any attempt to define the word "creole" immediately shows just how complex Louisiana history and culture truly are. Often considered the "birthplace of jazz" Louisiana is also home to other unique musical cultures, including Cajun and Zydeco music produced by the Cajuns (descendants of the Acadians from Canada) and the Afro-Creoles (descendants of slaves brought in, often by refugees from the Haitian Revolution). In this course, we will study the history of Louisiana and some of its distinct cultural contributions, including Cajun music and Zydeco, as well as New Orleans' Second Line tradition and Mardi Gras Indians. We will read historical and literary texts, and watch movies that help to contextualize this material. We will consider the differences of how Louisianans represent themselves, and whether/how those representations are related to mainstream stereotypes about the state and its people. Throughout the semester, we will take special care to consider the influences of other nations and cultures.