Louisiana - The Pelican State

Louisiana

Louisiana, located in the southeastern region of the United States, is known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and unique blend of French, African, Spanish, and Native American influences. Bordered by Texas, Arkansas, Mississippi, and the Gulf of Mexico, Louisiana is home to diverse landscapes that include swamps, bayous, and the mighty Mississippi River.

The state’s largest city, New Orleans, is famous worldwide for its music, cuisine, and colorful festivals like Mardi Gras. Louisiana has a strong cultural heritage, reflected in its Creole and Cajun traditions, jazz music, and flavorful dishes such as gumbo and jambalaya.

Louisiana became the 18th state of the U.S. in 1812 and played a significant role in American history, especially during the Civil War and the Civil Rights Movement. Today, it remains a dynamic and culturally rich state that draws visitors from around the world.

Louisiana Symbols

Fast Facts and Interesting Facts
Fact Detail Interesting Facts
Capital Baton Rouge
  • Louisiana was named in honor of King Louis XIV of France.
  • The state has a unique legal system based on French and Spanish civil law, unlike the English common law used in the other 49 states.
  • Mardi Gras in New Orleans is one of the most famous and vibrant festivals in the U.S., dating back to French colonial times.
  • It’s home to Cajun and Creole cultures, known for their distinctive music, cuisine, and dialects.
  • The Mississippi River, one of the longest in the world, ends its journey in Louisiana.
  • New Orleans is considered the birthplace of jazz.
  • The Louisiana Purchase in 1803, which included this territory, doubled the size of the U.S.
  • Louisiana has more Native American tribes than any other Southern state, with four federally recognized tribes.
  • The state’s wetlands are among the most ecologically productive in the country but are rapidly disappearing due to erosion and sea-level rise.
  • Tabasco sauce has been made on Avery Island, Louisiana since the 1860s.
Largest City New Orleans
Statehood April 30, 1812 (18th state)
Nickname The Pelican State
Population Approx. 4.6 million
State Bird Brown Pelican
State Flower Magnolia
Bordering States Texas, Arkansas, Mississippi
Geography Coastal marshes, bayous, Mississippi River delta
Major Industries Energy, petrochemicals, seafood, tourism

Our Content
Louisiana Interactive Map

Interactive and Printable Louisiana Maps and Map Activities

This section features numerous interactive and printable Louisiana maps. Students can even use our Maptivation program to make their own Louisiana map.

History of Mississippi

History of Louisiana

Louisiana was originally colonized by the French in the early 18th century and later became a Spanish territory before being returned to France. In 1803, it was sold to the United States as part of the Louisiana Purchase, doubling the nation's size and opening the door to westward expansion.
Jean Lafitte

Famous People from Louisiana

Louisiana is home to many famous figures, including Jean Lafitte, a legendary pirate and privateer who aided the U.S. during the War of 1812. The state also gave rise to jazz icon Louis Armstrong, whose groundbreaking music helped shape American culture and global music history.
Comprehension

Louisiana Literacy and Comprehension Exercises

This section offers a variety of literacy and reading comprehension activities, including engaging passages with question sets, cloze reading exercises, and lessons on text elements and structure. These resources are generally suitable for students in grades 4–8.
Arkansas Symbols

Fun Louisiana Printables and Coloring Activities

This section features fun and educational Louisiana-themed coloring activities and printables, including state symbols, a state flag outline, a 'Welcome to Louisiana' sign, and much more!
Collage America

Louisiana and United States Online Games

This section provides some really exciting online games such as Louisiana, or Not Louisiana, Collage America, Ameriquake, Conquer the States, Draw America, and several more.