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Bread and Respect: The Italians of Louisiana

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A Comprehensive Social History

Bread and Respect is a comprehensive social history of the Italians of Louisiana. It traces their journey from their homeland to the bayous of Louisiana and their contributions to the state's culture and economy. The book is illustrated with over 100 photographs and maps.

Bread and Respect: The Italians of Louisiana

by Eva Schloss

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	6723 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	332 pages

The Italians began arriving in Louisiana in the late 1800s, seeking a better life. They came from all over Italy, but most came from the southern regions of Sicily and Campania.

They settled in small communities throughout the state, but the largest concentrations were in New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and Shreveport. The Italians worked in a variety of occupations, but many found work in the sugar industry.

They also established their own businesses, such as grocery stores, restaurants, and bakeries.

The Italians brought their own culture and traditions to Louisiana. They spoke their own language, ate their own food, and celebrated their own holidays.

They also founded their own churches, schools, and social organizations.

Over time, the Italians became an integral part of Louisiana society. They contributed to the state's economy, culture, and politics.

Today, there are over 200,000 people of Italian descent living in Louisiana. They are proud of their heritage and continue to make significant contributions to the state.

The Journey to Louisiana

The Italians who came to Louisiana came from a variety of backgrounds. Some were peasants who were seeking a better life. Others were skilled workers who were looking for work.

Still others were political refugees who were fleeing persecution in their homeland.

No matter what their reasons for coming to Louisiana, the Italians faced many challenges. They had to learn a new language, adapt to a new culture, and find work in a new country.

Many of them also faced discrimination from the native-born Louisianans.

Despite the challenges, the Italians persevered. They worked hard and established themselves in their new homeland.

They also maintained their own culture and traditions. Today, the Italians of Louisiana are a vibrant and successful community.

Contributions to Louisiana Culture

The Italians have made significant contributions to Louisiana culture. They have introduced new foods, music, and festivals to the state.

They have also contributed to the state's economy and politics.

One of the most important contributions of the Italians to Louisiana culture is food. The Italians brought their own recipes and cooking techniques to Louisiana, and they quickly became known for their delicious food.

Some of the most popular Italian dishes in Louisiana include pasta, pizza, and seafood.

The Italians also introduced new music to Louisiana. They brought their own instruments and styles of music, and they quickly became popular with the locals.

Today, Italian music is an important part of Louisiana's musical heritage.

The Italians also brought their own festivals to Louisiana. They celebrated their own holidays, such as Saint Joseph's Day and the Feast of the Assumption.

These festivals are now an important part of Louisiana's cultural landscape.

In addition to their contributions to culture, the Italians have also made significant contributions to Louisiana's economy. They have started their own businesses and helped to develop the state's economy.

The Italians have also been active in politics. They have served in elected office and have been involved in the political process.

Today, the Italians of Louisiana are a vibrant and successful community. They are proud of their heritage and continue to make significant contributions to the state.

Bread and Respect is a comprehensive social history of the Italians of Louisiana. It traces their journey from their homeland to the bayous of Louisiana

and their contributions to the state's culture and economy. The book is illustrated with over 100 photographs and maps, and it is a valuable resource for anyone who is interested in the history of the Italian Americans of Louisiana.

Bread and Respect: The Italians of Louisiana

by Eva Schloss

4.3 out of 5