In Louisiana, Yesterday and Today, three veteran newspapermen examine the history and character of one of America's most remarkable states. This comprehensive, entertaining work will inform natives of their rich heritage and familiarize others with the many sources of Louisiana's special charm. In concise, thematic chapters, the authors discuss practically every aspect of Louisiana's history. They explore in depth many specific events and eras, including the Louisiana Purchase, the Battle of New Orleans, the Civil War and Reconstruction, and the rise of Huey P. Long. Illuminating Louisiana's wonderfully polyglot character, they trace the cultural milieu from earliest Indian days through the French and Spanish regimes into statehood. They tell of the pirate Jean Lafitte and the voodoo queen Marie Laveau, of the state's unique Cajun and Creole heritages, of the legendary red-light district of Storyville, and of the excitement and debauchery of Mardi Gras. As a bonus, the book provides an incisive look at the state's 64 parishes as it portrays Louisiana's history, population, economy, culture, and outstanding tourist attractions, evincing the diversity -- most notably between north and south -- that characterizes the state. An excellent guide for visitors who wish to learn about Louisiana's past as well as its present attractions, Louisiana, Yesterday and Today will also beckon natives to rediscover their heritage and the cultural wonderland that exists in their own backyard.

Daniel Thorpe was tall, dark, and gorgeous, with money to burn. And from the first moment he saw Miranda Stuart—naked!—he knew she was going to be trouble… and that he wanted her whatever the cost! Miranda might be financially challenged, but that didn't mean she was ready to be bought! However, when a man like Daniel offered to take you to Paris, it was tempting to accept, and think about what he really had in mind—later….

From a multi-dimensional and interdisciplinary standpoint, this book challenges the teleological and unidirectional notions of development embodied in the idea of modernisation or ‘progress’ and offers a critique of the tendency to consider Africa as a basket case, which often gives the Western ‘self’ an undeserving privilege and superiority over the African ‘other’. Mostly authored by emerging African scholars, this 16-chapter volume addresses the historical application of development projects in Africa and their modern impact in economic, political, cultural, social, and infrastructural contexts, among others. The book, therefore, unearths development dynamics in specific African countries, examines the continent’s external relations, rethinks predominant ideas on development, and engages in critical examination of concepts and practices that have maintained hegemonic positions in the discussions on Africa’s development. Its uniqueness lies in the ability to bring these several voices and themes together into a concise conception of both the challenges and possibilities of Africa’s sustainable development. The book targets both the academic and policy worlds in Africa and around the world, as well as ordinary members of the public who seek to broaden their theoretical and empirical understanding on the changing dynamics on the African continent.

In England today we enjoy a rich diversity of folk traditions, many of which can trace their beginnings back hundreds of years. They stem from every phase of our antiquity and embody all the peoples who have traditionally enriched our culture. In this book we visit some of the best known examples, including mumming, cheese rolling, tree dressing, rushbearing, beating the bounds, flitch trials and Wassailing, among many other customs, festivals and traditions.Covering all aspects of English folklore and tradition, including myths, legends, traditional song and dance, games, seasonal events and calendar customs, this volume encompasses the history of many of England’s best-loved folk traditions.