<p>Originally published in 1884, this classic remains an excellent reference on the history of this complex and charismatic segment of the state's citizenry. &quot;'What is a Creole?' Even in Louisiana, the question would be variously answered.&quot; Despite this admission, the author ably addresses the query with precision and aplomb. In this case, he is writing about the white descendants of the early French and Spanish immigrants born in the New World. Originally published in 1884, Creoles of Louisiana remains an excellent reference on the history of this complex and charismatic segment of the state's population. From the early days of &quot;The First Creoles&quot; through the trying times of &quot;The Battle of New Orleans&quot; and &quot;The Great Epidemic&quot; and on to &quot;Brighter Skies,&quot; the chapters chronicle the Creoles' rich history in the Pelican State. No examination of the people would be complete without an exploration of their home. In &quot;The Creoles' City,&quot; New Orleans emerges as a town carved out of the wilderness of the bayou . . . a town of tremendous potential and opportunity. The Creoles seized it, and, together, city and citizens flourished.</p>