Lafayette

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Lafayette is a city located within the state of Louisiana, United States. It is located on the Vermilion River and is the parish seat of Lafayette Parish, LA. According to the US Census of 2010, the city's population was 120,623. It is the larger principal city of the Louisiana Combined Statistical Area of Lafayette-Acadiana. In the year 2007, this statistical area had a recorded population of 538,470. Lafayette is the 4th largest city within Louisiana State.

Lafayette within Lafayette Parish should not be mistaken though with the former city of the same name within Jefferson Parish. Just recently, the other Lafayette was absorbed by the city of New Orleans. At first, the region was established in the year 1821 as Vermilionville. Jean Mouton, a French speaking Acadian was the founder of the area. The site was renamed in the year 1884 for a French military hero named General Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de Lafayette. He fought and greatly helped the American Army in the American Revolutionary War.

The city's main economy was traditionally agriculture until at least the 1940's. Now, the dominant businesses within the region are natural gas and petroleum. The medical profession has recently become a more important part in the surrounding economy.

LafayetteThe city of Lafayette has a rich and varied history comparable to rich history of Louisiana. From the year 1541 to 1803, the state of Louisiana underwent 9 different flag changes. Finally, during 1803, it came under the possession of the United States.

The huge French influence and heritage of Lafayette was mainly in part because of "Le Grand Derangement." During 1755, thousands of French Canadians were forced to flee their very own homes since they refused to renounce their Catholic religion for the Anglican Church and instead pledge their loyalty to the British flag. Sadly, over 50% of the Acadians perished because their crops and houses were burned by the British and they fled to the sea. Most survivors ended up in Louisiana after the King of Spain permitted them to settle in South Louisiana. These French Canadians settled in areas around the city of Lafayette. Here they were able to trap and fish according to their own traditions and raise their crops in their own fashion as well. This is how the Cajun culture was born.

Cajun is an interesting word that first derived from a French reference to Acadians. French nobles would refer to Acadians as "le Cadiens," dropping the letter "A." Afterward, the American people, who can not pronounce "Cadien" simply shortened the term and referred to the people as "Cajuns." These Cajun people were well-known for their unique culture. They are recognized to be enthusiastic and fun people who have a reputation for being very religious and hard working. Their cuisine, known to be spicy, flavorful food has become well-known throughout the globe. It is still a famous favorite among the "Bayou Country" tourists.

Right within the middle of the Acadiana area, Lafayette is the major retail center for the five parishes. One of the main retail places within the Mall of Acadiana, which comprises department stores including Sears, Dillard's, JC Penny and Macy's. It also has more than 100 specialty stores. Several famous outlets include: Chico's, American eagle Outfitters, Abercrombie & Fitch, Plato's Closet, Nine West, Cold Water Creek and Talbots. Furthermore, the biggest discount store within the Academy chain is Academy Sports and Outdoors' Lafayette location.