Degree

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

History

Document Type

Thesis

Abstract

This thesis analyzes the change in French Creole culture through the perspective of sugar planter and enslaver Alexandre Etienne DeClouet. The aim of this study is to assess the relationship between all facets of DeClouet’s livelihood including, relationships with other wealthy French Creoles, his family, the Louisiana sugar industry, Political alliances, other cultural demographics in Louisiana, and his enslaved labor on his large St. Martin parish property. Within this study, several archival databases were used to attempt to create a clearer picture of the sugar planter with the help of newer primary source evidence. Using the Alexander DeClouet and Family Papers from LSU Libraries, and the incorporation of the DeClouet Family papers from UL Lafayette’s Edith Dupre library, these archival sources give new perspectives and commentary on patriarch of the DeClouet family. Throughout the nineteenth century, DeClouet constantly changed his core political and social beliefs to sustain his wealth, with one of his most notorious examples being the preservation of slavery. This thesis contributes to the historiography of nineteenth century Creoles in Louisiana by showing the central role of white supremacy in their changing identity.

Date

2-6-2026

DOI

https://proquest.com/docview/3347797059

First Committee Chair

Ian Beamish

First Committee Member

Candice Harrison

Second Committee Member

Michael Martin

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