What is Creole?

"Creole" is the non-Anglo culture and identity that flourished before Louisiana was sold to the United States in 1803. 

In the 19th century, Creole identity was primarily defined by three things: native birth, the French language, and the Roman Catholic faith. 

Historically, Creole identity transcended both race and a person's legal status as free or enslaved. 

Today, "Creole" is recognized as a blend of cultural influences from the three groups that were present in colonial, pre-1803 Louisiana: Native American, Western European and West African.