I thought I had a basic understanding until near the end of last semester I said to my suite mate, "So Creole and Cajun are the same?". Being of Creole descent himself he immediately jumped on my question with a firm "NO". He then continued on in a long monologue about how Cajun's are simple people from the country and Creoles are city folk who are rich in culture. I soon came to realize that his opinion was extremely biased. I decided to become self informed.
After reading this article http://www.landrystuff.com/creole.htm I found that Creoles were of Spanish and French descent well Cajuns were Acaidians that came from Canada. This article describes such a mixed culture in New Orleans that the lines are almost blurred. What are the real "requirements" for being considered Creole?
`Although I understand more know the definition of Creole is still a very loose one for me. Some people believe there is a racial aspect while others do not. It is a very touchy subject and I think that creole can be defined in a subjective manner. There is no way to answer the question "What is Creole?" without personal opinion.
True enough! However, that opinion can certainly be informed by the history of the city, etc. . . . But you are certainly right in that people, particularly those who identify themselves as "Creole" definitely have a vested interest in defining the term. Why do you think that people are so vested in a label that some would argue is passe?
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