Louisiana, a History Book

I read the edition written by Light Townsend Cummins, Judith Kelleher Schafer, Edward F. Haas, and Michael L. Kurtz (and 𝘯𝘰𝘵 edited by Bennett H. Wall).

It does what it sets out to do, but not in any unique or interesting way. Cummins and Schafer’s sections were pretty dry, Haas and Kurtz’s were more interesting. Themes that stood out to me include government neglect, corruption, apathy, and an abusive and vampiric ruling class, which frequently made for depressing reading.

I firmly disagree with the assertion in the introduction that Louisiana history is representative of the experiences of other states, or of America in general. That is not to say comparisons can't be made, merely that when Louisiana is concerned such comparisons should be made with care, because, in many ways, Louisiana is clearly in a class of her own.

Since this book does its job, but is not very entertaining or possess much insight. Three stars.