Baton rouge

Baton Rouge is the capital city of the U.S. state of Louisiana. Located on the eastern bank of the Mississippi River, it is the second-largest city in the state. Baton Rouge is a major industrial, petrochemical, medical, and research center of the American South. The Port of Greater Baton Rouge is the tenth largest in the United States in terms of tonnage shipped.

History

Baton Rouge's history dates back to 1699, when French explorers noted a red cypress tree stripped of its bark that marked the boundary between Houma and Bayougoula tribal hunting grounds. They called the tree "le bâton rouge," or red stick. The native name for the site had been Istrouma. From evidence found along the Mississippi, Comite, and Amite rivers, and in three Native American mounds remaining in the city, archaeologists have been able to date habitation of the Baton Rouge area to 8000 BC.

Geography

Baton Rouge is located at 30.45 degrees north, 91.14 degrees west, and has an elevation of 56 feet. According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 79.1 square miles, of which 76.8 square miles is land and 2.2 square miles (2.81%) is water.

Economy

Baton Rouge enjoys a strong economy that has helped the city be ranked as one of the "Top 10 Places for Young Adults" in 2010 by Portfolio Magazine. The city is home to both ExxonMobil and Dow Chemical Company, and is one of the largest volume shipping ports in the world.

Education

Baton Rouge is home to Louisiana State University, one of the largest institutions of higher education in the U.S., and Southern University, the largest historically black college in the nation.

Culture

Baton Rouge has a vibrant culture with a blend of Cajun and Creole traditions. The city is known for its food, music, and festivals, most notably the Baton Rouge Blues Festival.

See also

• List of mayors of Baton Rouge
• Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport
• USS Baton Rouge (SSN-689)

Also see

► Healthcare providers in Louisiana

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