New Orleans is the jewel of the southern US state of Louisiana, sparkling just above the mouth of the mighty Mississippi River where it meets the Gulf of Mexico. The heart of the city lies between the river and Lake Pontchartrain and, from this approximately 13km (eight-mile) core, the suburbs of Greater New Orleans spread out into the surrounding expanse of drained swampland. The river’s shape, as it curves around the central district, gave rise to the city’s nickname, ‘Crescent City’, although, New Orleans is more likely to be known as the ‘Big Easy’, a comment on the city’s preferred languorous pace.
New Orleans was founded in 1718, at the swampy foot of France’s huge Louisiana territory, and named after the Duc d’Orleans. Despite hurricanes, mosquitoes, disease and floods, settlers came and the city prospered. In 1762, the territory was secretly ceded to Spain. France regained it in 1800, only to sell it to the United States three years later in the Louisiana Purchase. Drawn by the rich plantations and thriving port, the Americans came seeking their fortunes. During the 19th century, New Orleans boomed with trade from the cotton and sugar plantations and, by 1860, was the wealthiest city in the country.
After the Civil War (1861-65), the region’s slave-based agricultural economy declined. Today, the Port of New Orleans, the second largest in the country, is the mainstay of the city’s economy, along with the petrochemical and aerospace industries, and tourism. New Orleans, with its unique atmosphere, is one of the most popular US destinations, particularly during its magnificent Mardi Gras celebration in late February/March.
Its oldest district, the French Quarter (Vieux Carré), has a wealth of architecture that portrays its colourful history. Most of the original buildings were destroyed in the fire of 1788 and the graceful houses with ornate wrought-iron balconies are actually Spanish in style. In fact, New Orleans has 17 National Historic Districts, with more than 35,000 listed buildings.
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