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The now glamorous city of
New Orleans had a very humble start to life. Founded by French Creoles, the
city actually began as a crude settlement battered by hurricanes, floods and
hostile Indians.
By 1762, Louisiana had been
transferred from French to Spanish hands, putting New Orleans in the hands of
the Spanish at the time the New England colonies were revolting against George
III. Following the Louisiana Purchase, thousands of American settlers came down
the Mississippi to make their fortunes in New Orleans. During the War of 1812,
General Andrew Jackson arrived on the scene and defeated the British in the
Battle of New Orleans, the scene of the last hostile conflict between the Americans
and the British.
Today, New Orleans flourishes
as one of the largest ports in the United States and one of the nations most
popular tourist destinations. Millions of dollars are being spent in development
and renovation. Yet, with all the modern innovations, the city retains its Old
World European aura, carefully preserving its history, its reputation for world-famous
jazz and cuisine, and its romantic Creole heritage.
New Orleans is proud of its
well-known nickname, "Big Easy", because it so aptly describes the
attitude of this lovely city, steeped in history and intertwining cultures.
The city has everything for both resident and visitor alike, from
art galleries and museums to professional sports, from the high life on Bourbon
Street to enchanting riverboat cruises, New Orleans offers every visitor hundreds
of entertaining and enjoyable attractions and diversions. No wonder it's known
throughout the world as a city where hospitality never ends!
Have you been to New Orleans and know about some more great highlights worth a mention? Add details for other visitors to read about.
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