Events with tag - New Orleans

January 1717

First Mississippi River Levee Built

In 1717, the first levee on the Mississippi River was constructed near New Orleans under the supervision of French engineer Pierre Le Blond de La Tour. This three-foot-high, one-mile-long structure marked the beginning of what would become one of North America's most extensive flood control systems.

May 7, 1718

Founding of New Orleans

Jean-Baptiste Le Moyne de Bienville established New Orleans as the capital of French Louisiana, strategically positioning it along the Mississippi River with an initial settlement of 50 men. The city was named after Philippe II, Duke of Orleans, who served as Regent of France.

January 8, 1815

Battle of New Orleans

The Battle of New Orleans was a decisive American victory against British forces on January 8-18, 1815. Led by Major General Andrew Jackson, American forces of 4,000 troops defeated 8,000 British soldiers, despite the battle occurring after the war had officially ended with the Treaty of Ghent.

April 25, 1862

Capture of New Orleans

Union Admiral David Farragut led a successful naval assault capturing New Orleans, the Confederacy's largest city and most important port. This strategic victory gave the Union control over the lower Mississippi River and dealt a severe blow to Confederate supply lines.