Contrary to the idea that Cajuns are descendants of only French people, our culture is not only made up of a Canadian background but also a few backgrounds of Europe and the West Indies. Originally Acadians, the people became known as Cajuns since people of different backgrounds had become one group.

Another misconception that is rarely found written is that Cajuns have alligators in their backyards (often as pets) and use the pirogue (type of boat that was used by Cajuns) as their main source of transportation. While the land is flatter in South Louisiana than in North Louisiana, there are as many roads in both regions.

Notice in the link above (on the fleur de lis clip art), how Cajuns changed in the 20th Century. As a result of Cajuns trying to become Americanized, students were forbidden to speak French. My mother and her sisters failed first grade since they had not already learned to speak English; however, their younger brothers were priviledged to have learned from them and began school speaking English.