Samantha Perez

The Islenos of Louisiana: on the Water's Edge (La) Samantha Perez

Louisiana is perhaps best known for its distinctive French heritage, a legacy visible in the street names and architecture around the state. But in the late 1700s, Louisiana fell under Spanish control. Coaxed by promises of new opportunity, thousands of Canary Islanders of Spanish descent relocated to Louisiana, where they established four settlements. Generations of Islenos have overcome the challenges of an evolving American society, as well as the devastation of storms that have ripped through their land. Through it all, the Islenos have preserved their unique heritage, traditions and culture for more than two centuries. This is their history.