New Orleans is one of the oldest cities in the United States and is located on the Mississippi Delta. It is a culturally rich and festive city, boasting a multitude of restaurants and jazz clubs that add to its vibrant cosmopolitan atmosphere. Founded by the French in 1718 as part of their colonial set up in the territory, New Orleans has since become a popular tourist destination and a critical seaport.
Many visitors to New Orleans take a cruise down the Mississippi River, passing along the signature sights of the city, such as the French Quarter and historic homes. For centuries, the flow of the river has been critical to New Orleans’ development, providing a lifeline to the cities beyond and providing a route of commerce and passage. The Mississippi’s arrival and exit at the city mark the beginning and end of the water journey, and the city plays an essential role in accommodating and regulating the river’s flow.
The Army Corps of Engineers and the New Orleans Levee Board have both taken measures to protect against flooding, as well as to ensure that the flow of the river remains steady and stable at all times. As one of the most valuable waterways in the world, the river regulators are always motivated to ensure the highest level of safety. In addition, the City of New Orleans has taken strides to encourage conservation and sustainability of the Mississippi River, and the city has become a leader in the conservation of the ecosystem and its inhabitants.
The importance of New Orleans as the “mouth of the Mississippi” has been well documented over the years and has been recognized in popular culture, literature and music. It is a city that has seen centuries worth of constant waves of human and environmental changes, yet still continues to remain resilient and spirited. Despite the hurricanes, floods and other natural disasters, New Orleans is often regarded as the gateway to the United States,and its connection to the Mississippi is indisputable.
History
Since colonial times, the Mississippi River has served as a dependable and reliable transport infrastructure. The route was originally intended to connect the eastern banks with the western settlements. As commercial trade increased, the port of New Orleans became the destination for goods and needed supplies. Its role as gateway to the west spurred the growth of a bustling port along the banks of the great Mississippi.
The fortifications of the city, built in 1815, have withstood the many changes in the river’s course. In 1927, the Great Flood caused immense destruction and the loss of many lives, yet the infrastructure managed to survive and protect the city from the worst of the tidal surge. Since then, the levees and floodwalls have been fortified, ensuring that the mouth of the Mississippi remains a safe and viable option.
Over the years, the reputation of the city as the mouth of the Mississippi has been further enhanced. Even after Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, followed with the BP Oil Spill, the city managed to rise up with minimal damage and continues to be the go-toplace of safe portage.
New Orleans: the Big Easy
Aside from its historic status, New Orleans is also a cultural mecca that doubles as a great place to live and work. The relaxed and hospitable vibe of the city has earned it the nickname of “the Big Easy,” making it a popular destination for tourists and business travelers. The local food, music, art and entertainment industry provide an extensive pool of attractions, giving visitors a memorable and immersive experience.
Being on the mouth of the river, the city has ample recreational activities available. Nature lovers can take advantage of the expansive wetlands and parks, while others can explore the many marinas and come understand the significance of the river in Louisiana’s culture. From the classic paddle wheelers to the likes of the Creole Queen, cruises down the Mississippi has become a regular pastime for tourists.
The mighty Mississippi also serves as a source of pride amongst locals, who remain deeply attached to the river. The annual Mardi Gras festivities and historic festivities pay tribute to the iconic river and the city’s unique character. Along the banks and ditches, bridges mark the arrival of the meandering waters every spring, taking part in a flow of history and culture that is embedded into the society there.
Economy and Preservation
The role that the Mississippi has played in the development of the United States cannot be understated. The river’s immense resources served as the means of moderating and sustaining the nation’s growth in the 19th century. Hailed as the lifeline of the south, the Mississippi has become an integral part of the national economy, providing the means of transport and delivery of goods.
For the citizens of New Orleans, their connection is not only in terms of transport or culture, but also as a responsibility to protect the environment. The communities residing in the many ports, towns and cities along the Mississippi’s stretch have long been dedicated to preserving the aquatic life and habitats lined up along the river. Numerous environmental campaigns and initiatives, aimed at conserving the river’s flora and fauna, have been conducted over the years.
Projects such as the Solar Roadways Initiative and the Louisiana-Pelican Delta Subsidence Program have helped to increase public awareness and resiliency from flooding and other natural disasters. The efforts of the Mississippi River Network, formed in response to the BP Oil Spill, have also helped reduce the impact of the spill.
Final Thoughts and Conclusions
New Orleans is a city of culture, development and sustainability, enshrined in its reputation as the gateway to the Mississippi river. Located at the delta of the great old river, this port town has withstood the test of time and emerged to be one of the most recognizable cities in the United States. From commerce to culture, New Orleans has established itself as an ode to the many generations that have called the region home and has served as a reminder of the importance of the Mississippi to this region.
