The Founding of New Acadia - (Beginnings of Acadian Life in Louisiana, 1765-1803) by Carl a Brasseaux (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

In this penetrating study, Carl Brasseaux looks beyond long-standing mythology to provide a critical account of early Acadian culture in Louisiana and the reasons for its survival. He convincingly dispels many received notions about the routes Acadians traveled from Nova Scotia to Louisiana, their original settlement sites, and the patterns of their subsequent migrations within the state, and closely examines the relations of Louisiana's Acadians with their black, Spanish, Indian, and Creole neighbors.
In adapting to subtropical Louisiana, with its turmoil of alternating French and Spanish regimes, the Acadians exhibited industry, pragmatism, individualism, and the ability to close ranks in the face of a general threat. As Brasseaux reveals, Acadians' cohesiveness and insularity preserved the core elements of their culture and helped them adjust to new physical and social demands.

Review Quotes

"A contribution of the highest order to a hitherto grossly neglected field of American history. It will undoubtedly remain the definitive study of the Acadians for many years to come." -- Journal of American Studies

"Brasseaux's book ensures that the story of [the Acadians'] migration will endure in terms more historically accurate than Longfellow's but with a panache Longfellow would appreciate." -- Journal of Ethnic History

About the Author

A native of Acadiana, Carl A. Brasseaux is the author of more than thirty books on French North America. In June 2010, he retired as director of the Center for Louisiana Studies, director of the Center for Cultural and Eco-Tourism, director of the Press, professor of history, and managing editor of Louisiana History -- all at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette.