It’s been a great 50 years for Louisiana—no question about it. Even though in the early 2000’s we were hit by two enormous storms that rocked our state to the core, the comeback has been truly unbelievable. Here’s to another great 50 years for Louisiana moving forward!

1. Jazz Fest starts in New Orleans
flickr.com/photos/benrauch
What would Louisiana be without this iconic festival and foundation?
2. 1975 - The Super Dome in New Orleans is completed, with a final cost of $163,313,315 for building and grounds.
Wikicommons / David Reber
There have been so many historic games and gatherings in this dome.
3. 1986 – Atchafalaya National Wildlife Refuge established near Baton Rouge.
Wikicommons / Eric Zobrist
An essential piece of Louisiana natural heritage.
4. Pope John Paul II visits New Orleans.
Wikicommons / JJ Georges
One of the most exciting papal visits Louisiana has ever had.
5. 1989 – Steel Magnolias filmed in Natchitoches, LA, becoming one of the most popular movies filmed in Louisiana of all time.
It's still a popular spot for tourists in the area.

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6. 1991 – David Duke defeated in his run for governor, preventing Louisiana from having a governor who was known to be a former Grand Wizard of the KKK.
Wikicommons / Emmanuel d'Aubignosc
7. 1991 – Shaquille O’Neal is recognized as the NCAA men’s basketball player of the year after an illustrious career at LSU.
flickr.com/photos/blakearthur24
8. 1994 – ULL Created North America’s first francophone studies Ph.D. program.
Wikicommons / Billy Hathorn
9. 2010 – Saints Win the Superbowl.
flickr.com/photos/glorius
Perhaps the happiest day ever.
10. 2012 – Duck Dynasty, featuring a Louisiana family from Monroe and West Monroe, premieres on A&E, quickly becoming one of the most popular reality shows of all time.
Wikicommons / B2project
11. 2015 – BP ordered to pay $18.7 billion dollar in fines as settlement for the Deep Water Horizon spill.
Wikicommons / NASA
A good portion of this money has been set aside to enact the Coastal Master Plan.

What do you think is the most amazing thing to happen in Louisiana in the past 50 years? Let us know in the comments below!

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