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 Seats for Forklifts Lafayette - The city of Lafayette, Louisiana is located along the Vermilion River and serves as the Parish seat of Lafayette Parish. The city of Lafayette has a population of over 120,000 according to the United States Census of the year 2010. It is the larger principal city of the Louisiana Combined Statistical Area of Lafayette-Acadiana. During 2007, this statistical area had a recorded population of approximately 538,480. The city of Lafayette is the fourth largest city within the state of Louisiana.
It is vital not to confuse the city of Lafayette with a city of the same name that is located in Jefferson Parish, LA. This other Lafayette was absorbed into the city of New Orleans. Originally, the region was established in 1821 as Vermilionville. A French speaking Acadian, Jean Mouton was the area's founder. The site was renamed in the year 1884 for a French military hero named General Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de Lafayette. He fought and greatly helped the American Army during the American Revolutionary War.
Until the 1940's Lafayette's main economy was based on agriculture. In the 1940's, the natural gas and petroleum businesses became dominant within the area. The medical profession has recently become a more significant role in the surrounding economy.
The city has a varied and rich history comparable to rich history of Louisiana. From the year 1541 to 1803, the state of Louisiana underwent 9 different flag changes. Finally, during the year 1803, it came under the possession of the United States.
The city of Lafayette has a long history of heritage and influence, which in large part was due to "Le Grand Derangement." In 1755, many French Canadians were forced to leave from their own houses after they refused to renounce their Catholic religion. The Anglican Church aimed to have the people pledge their allegiance to the British Flag. Unfortunately, over 50% of the Acadians perished as their homes and crops were burned by the British and they fled to the sea. Nearly all survivors ended up within Louisiana after the King of Spain let them settle in South Louisiana. These French Canadians settled within parts around Lafayette. Here they can trap and fish according to their own traditions and raise their crops in their own fashion too. This is how the Cajun culture was born.
Cajun is an interesting word which first derived from a French reference to Acadians. French nobles will refer to Acadians as "le Cadiens," dropping the letter "A." Later on, the Americans, who can not pronounce "Cadien" simply shortened the term and called the people as "Cajuns." These Cajun people were well-known for their unique culture. They are recognized to be enthusiastic and fun individuals who have a reputation for being hard working and very religious. Their cuisine, known to be flavorful, spicy food has become well-known all over the globe. It is still preferred amongst the tourists of the "Bayou Country."
Right in the middle of the Acadiana region, the city of Lafayette is the main retail center for the five parishes. Amongst the major retail locations within the Mall of Acadiana, which features department stores such as Dillard's, Sears, Macy's, and JC Penney. It also has more than 100 specialty stores. A few famous outlets consist of: American Eagle Outfitters, Chico's, Plato's Closet, Abercrombie & Fitch, Talbots, Nine West and Cold Water Creek. In addition, the largest Academy chain discount store is Academy Sports and Outdoors' Lafayette location.
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