Cajun Culture in Louisiana

The Cajuns live in Texas, but mainly in Louisiana. They are descended from the Acadians, the inhabitants of Acadia, which was a territory in Canada covering present-day Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick. During the 18th century, the Acadians were expropriated and deported by the British, who obtained part of Acadia in their war against the French. Families were often separated, property confiscated or destroyed, and transport conditions were appalling. Many died. The Acadians were landed along the Atlantic, on the American continent and in Europe, where they settled or left to find more welcoming regions. Some settled in Louisiana, then a Spanish colony. Over the decades, their culture became permeated by the local culture, influencing it in return. During certain periods, being Cajun was mocked, while Anglo-American society was culturally dominant. However, the Cajuns have retained certain traditions, and in recent decades there has been a revival of Cajun culture, particularly through literature, music and film. Discover a few aspects of Cajun culture with our collection!