History:
- Colonial Era: Louisiana was originally inhabited by Native American tribes. In 1682, the area was claimed by French explorer René-Robert Cavelier, and it became a French colony. The region was named after King Louis XIV of France.
- Spanish Rule: From 1762 to 1800, Louisiana was controlled by Spain before being returned to France.
- Louisiana Purchase: In 1803, the U.S. bought Louisiana from France in the Louisiana Purchase, a major event that doubled the size of the United States.
- Statehood: Louisiana became the 18th U.S. state in 1812.