Unit 7

Spanish Colonial Louisiana

Though the Louisiana Creoles were initially unhappy when they learned about Louisiana's transfer from France to Spain, they soon grew to appreciate Spain's efficient and steady leadership. Under effective Spanish governors, Louisiana grew from a sparsely-populated, relatively poor territory to a thriving agricultural colony which maintaied its French culture. During Spanish control of Louisiana, many different groups would immigrate to the colony, each briging with them their own unique culture that helped make Louisiana into the diverse community that it is today.

Guiding Questions for Unit 7

- What was Louisiana like when Spain took control of the colony?
- How did Spanish administrators change colonial Louisiana?
- How did Spanish rule affect Louisiana’s growing enslaved and free populations?
- How did the different groups that immigrated to Louisiana shape it's culture?
- How did Spain lose control of Louisiana, and how is the legacy of Spanish rule still present in Louisiana today?