New
Orleans is proud of its well-known nickname, "Big
Easy", because it so aptly describes the attitude of this
lovely city, steeped in history and intertwining cultures.
The glamorous city of New Orleans had quite an inauspicious
beginning. Though founded by French Creoles, she actually began
as a crude settlement beset by hurricanes, floods and hostile
Indians.
By 1762, Louisiana had been transferred from French to
Spanish hands. Thus, New Orleans was in the hands of the Spanish
at the time the New England colonies revolted against George
III. Following the Louisiana Purchase, more and more Americans
came downriver to make their fortunes in New Orleans. During the
War of 1812, General Andrew Jackson arrived on the scene and
defeated the British in the Battle of New Orleans - the last
battle of the last war ever fought between the U.S. and Great
Britain.
Today, New Orleans continues to flourish. It is one of the
largest ports in the United States and in the world. Millions of
dollars are being spent in development and renovation. Yet, with
all the modern innovations, the city retains its Old World aura,
carefully preserving its history, its reputation for
world-famous jazz and cuisine, and its romantic Creole heritage.
From art galleries and museums to professional sports, from
the high life on Bourbon Street to enchanting riverboat cruises,
New Orleans offers every visitor hundreds of entertaining and
enjoyable destinations. No wonder it's known throughout the
world as a city where hospitality never ends!
