Italian Louisiana: History, Heritage & Tradition

by Alan G. Gauthreaux

At the close of the nineteenth century, Louisiana's ports hosted an influx of Italian immigrants. Like so many immigrant communities before, acclimating to their new home was not easy.
Though the Italian contribution to Louisiana's culture is palpable and celebrated, at one time ethnic Italians were constantly embroiled in scandal, sometimes deserved and sometimes as scapegoats. The new immigrants hoped that they would be welcomed and see for themselves the "streets paved with gold." Their new lives, however, were difficult. Italians in Louisiana faced prejudice, violence and political exile for their refusal to accept the southern racial mores. Author and historian Alan Gauthreaux" "documents the experience of those Italians who arrived in Louisiana over one hundred years ago..

Genres: Nonfiction

160 pages, Paperback

First published January 21, 2014

Reviews

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book and an easy read for everybody. Plus, there's pictures!

[Cynthia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an unbiased look at the Italian immigrant experience in Louisiana, including controversies that affected the relationship between the U.S. and Italy during the period of heaviest immigration. Historian Alan Gauthreaux examines several key events, providing documented details as well as the author’s educated speculation on the unknown. A recommended read for students of Southern history, particularly Louisiana’s, as well as all American Italians and those lovers of Italian culture. Includes an extensive list of primary sources and a bibliography that should encourage further reading.

[The Advocate]

"The Italians that chose New Orleans and Louisiana as their American Dream faced prejudice, violence and political exile, but ultimately made their way in the new world for younger generations of Italians to succeed and live here."
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