American Shtetl

September 28, 2015
Multicultural New Orleans maintains a mystique that stems from its unique development under governments of France, Spain, and Thomas Jefferson’s U.S., argues musician-turned-history teacher Faber in this remarkable and thorough history. He ably describes the city’s complex evolution in a packed chronological narrative that takes note of Louisiana’s key historical figures, harsh geographic considerations, and complex socioeconomic configurations. While the heavily Catholic, French-speaking city differed greatly in temperament from the predominantly British, Protestant republic surrounding it, Faber adroitly asserts that the port city (officially established in 1718) and the young country shared similar dreams of self-determination and trading opportunities. Steering away from traditional interpretations, Faber argues that “class, not ethnic identity” caused the bulk
of conflict between the Creole elite and transplanted Easterners. But rampant intermarriage suggested common ground, he notes—a point that was solidified during Andrew Jackson’s 1815 victory in the Battle of New Orleans. In spite of simultaneously enchanting and confounding Jefferson, New Orleans gained its singular identity through a long transition of becoming more “New Orleanian”—a process that ironically made it more American. Illus.

October 1, 2015

Creating a government for New Orleans that incorporated the aspirations of those who lived and prospered there challenged political leaders who sought a model for American expansion as the "empire of freedom." In this study of change over time, Faber (history, Loyola Univ. New Orleans) analyzes the geopolitical and cultural maneuverings that had far-reaching implications for Louisiana's eventual journey to statehood and beyond, as well as for the further growth of the new nation. That New Orleans and its environs changed hands from France to Spain and back to France again, before being sold to President Thomas Jefferson in 1803, sheds light on the region's frequent culture clashes during the period, a situation Faber argues was exacerbated more by inevitable socioeconomic striation than ethnic or religious differences. Like in Ned Sublette's The World That Made New Orleans, the slave trade is identified as an important part of the city's history, yet here the focus is on the Creole elite's expectation of continued prosperity as planters controlling access to the heartland via the Mississippi. VERDICT This well-researched snapshot of a brief period of the city's lengthy history richly details personalities and events, offering a valuable perspective to history students and anyone who has experienced the Crescent City's vibrant way of life.--Barbara Ferrara, Chesterfield Cty. P.L., VA

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