Southern traditions make the South a unique place to live, and there are many of them. It’s always been this way. During times of the Confederacy, the South was known for its descent from several political issues and culture that other states simply couldn’t understand. Despite a daunting past, the ways of the South cultivated southern traditions that have helped define it to this day, and we’re going to share some of them with you.
In this article, we’re going to look at 4 southern traditions you should know about. By the end, you’ll have a better understanding of the South and its influence on the rest of the US. You’re about to learn quite a bit about how and why things are the way they are down here. Let’s take a quick look!
Popular southern traditions
Soul food
Of all southern traditions, a particular knack for soul food is one of the most popular. Soul food is a type of cuisine that celebrates the ability to make tasty meals with minimal ingredients. Corn, green beans, and chicken mark a typical dish. For the inexperienced cook, this can seem like a bland meal. But, experienced soul food cooks can take these 3 elements and make them extremely flavorful. It originated among African American culture during hard times in the south, and it’s now a staple meal choice among southern traditions.
Sportsmanship
Louisiana is often called the “Sportsman’s Paradise,” because hunting, fishing, and other methods of acquiring your own animal meats are highly popular. People pride themselves on bringing home their own food rather than purchasing processed, store-bought foods. In many ways, Louisiana residents are hunters and gatherers. We enjoy the thrill of the hunt and pride that comes along with the ability to survive in the wild. For others who aren’t familiar with the culture, this may seem like one of the most controversial southern traditions. But anyone here will tell you it’s a-okay.
Voodoo
New Orleans voodoo is a southern tradition we don’t necessarily agree with, but it has to be mentioned. In NOLA, you’ll find all sorts of voodoo shops with potions, dolls, and everything you need to practice this religion. Voodoo originated in Haiti and found its way into Louisiana culture a long time ago. It’s a mixture of Catholicism with Haitian religions, and while it may seem silly, many people practice it. Of all southern traditions, this may be one of the zaniest, but it still exists. And there’s no way around it.
Jazz
Everyone knows New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz music, and for this reason, it’s one of the key southern traditions. You’ll find bars and other venues that play jazz music exclusively, and it’s welcome by the people who live here. Louisiana music is easily recognizable, with instruments such as the blues harmonica and saxophone. Visit Bourbon Street in NOLA, and you’ll find an array of place where you can experience this flavor of sound. Without a doubt, it’s a southern tradition which you’ll be hard-pressed to find anywhere else.
Conclusion
By now, you’ve probably discovered some interesting facts about the South you never realized. It’s truly a different world down here, and you have to experience it to to fully understand it. Next time you’re in Louisiana, look out for these intricacies, and picture us saying, “We told you so.” These southern traditions have become a way of life, and you can enjoy them when you decide to visit Louisiana.