Acadiana

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Breaux Bridge, Louisiana (4)
New Iberia, Louisiana Feb 2019 BPOE
FashionableMarquisC
CrowleyCrowdListening1938Colorized
Lafayette Louisiana Stjohnchurch
Acadiana
Cultural region
Map of the 22 parishes in Acadiana
Map of the 22 parishes in Acadiana
CountryUnited States
StateLouisiana
Time zoneUTC-6 (CST)
 • Summer (DST)UTC-5 (CDT)


Acadiana ( ) is the official name given to the French Louisiana region that is home to a large Cajun population. The area is composed of 22 parishes in the southern part of the state of Louisiana. The term "Acadiana" is often used interchangeably with Cajun Country.

History[edit | edit source]

The history of Acadiana is deeply rooted in the migration of the Acadians from Canada to Louisiana in the 18th century. The Acadians were expelled from Nova Scotia during the Great Expulsion (Le Grand Dérangement) by the British Empire. Many of these displaced Acadians settled in the swamps and bayous of southern Louisiana, where they became known as Cajuns.

Geography[edit | edit source]

Acadiana is characterized by its unique geography, which includes bayous, swamps, and marshes. The region is bounded by the Gulf of Mexico to the south and includes major cities such as Lafayette, Lake Charles, and Houma.

Culture[edit | edit source]

The culture of Acadiana is a rich blend of French, Spanish, African, and Native American influences. The region is known for its distinctive Cajun cuisine, zydeco music, and Cajun French language. Festivals such as Mardi Gras and the Festival International de Louisiane celebrate the unique heritage of the area.

Economy[edit | edit source]

The economy of Acadiana is diverse, with significant contributions from the oil and gas industry, agriculture, and tourism. The region is also known for its seafood industry, particularly shrimp and crawfish.

Education[edit | edit source]

Acadiana is home to several institutions of higher education, including the University of Louisiana at Lafayette and McNeese State University. These institutions play a crucial role in the cultural and economic development of the region.

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Categories[edit | edit source]

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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD