The History of Higher Education in Louisiana

The book tells the story of Louisiana and its people - through the lens of higher education. Starting with the cultural foundation of the French and Spanish inhabitants, the state - and its colleges and universities - took a path unlike the rest of America. From the mid-nineteenth century beginnings, Louisiana higher education expanded as the state grew. Unlike in many other parts of the country, Louisiana governors, especially Huey P. Long, played a central role in the establishment and reform of colleges and universities. Louisiana State University and Tulane University emerged as the most important and influential universities in the state, and Louisiana leaders consciously set up a "dual system" of higher education, segregated by race. As Louisiana looks to the future, an improvement in college graduation rates is the key to prosperity. The goal of this history is to provide a foundation upon which leaders can base effective policy decisions.