New Orleans Subcultures and Countercultures

African American Culture:
The African American culture is a subculture that is most known to New Orleans. During the times of slavery, the South was home to many African American slaves. New Orleans was known as one of the greatest cities that grew and supplied cotton across the nation. Many slaves worked on cotton farms, and did so to make a living. After slavery was abolished, many former slaves decided to continue to call New Orleans home. Since that time, New Orleans continues to be enriched with history and a heavily populated African American culture as well.

Taken from npr.org

(Picture taken in the Baptist Church on the Whitney plantation tour)

(Picture taken during Whitney plantation tour)

(Picture taken during Whitney plantation tour)

French Culture:
Another one of the biggest countercultures in New Orleans is the French culture. The French originally settled in New Orleans back in 1682. It was claimed by two french brothers by the names of Sieur d’Iberville and Sieur de Bienville. In 1803, New Orleans was claimed by the American government, but the French spirit did not die. Today, New Orleans is not only home to the French Quarter, but also consists of many French restaurants as well.

Taken from Google Images

Museums:
Throughout your time spent in New Orleans, there are many different museums to explore that describe more about the different cultures that are embraced in New Orleans. There is a museum located in the Art district that describes the Italian culture and the impact that the Italian people had on the city of New Orleans. The Backstreet Culture museum also provides information about the different events during Mardi Gras and how the various culture traditions throughout this time as well. Lastly, the Irish Cultural Museum also provides information about how the Irish immigrated to New Orleans and their experiences as well. The links provided below give more information about these different museums as well as include their exact locations.

Taken from Google images

Museum Links:
Italian Museum
Backstreet Culture Museum
 Irish Museum


Works Cited:

"French History in New Orleans." French History in New Orleans. 2015. Web. 11 Dec. 2015.

"Remembering New Orleans' Overlooked Ties To Slavery." NPR. NPR, 18 July 2015. Web. 11 Dec. 2015.