New Orleans has a strong French influence due to its history as a French colony. The city was founded in 1718 by Jean-Baptiste Le Moyne, Sieur de Bienville, and named in honor of Philippe II, Duke of Orleans, who was the regent of France at the time. The French influence can be seen in the city's architecture, food, and music. For example, the French Quarter is a historic district in New Orleans that is known for its French colonial architecture, including the St. Louis Cathedral. The city is also home to many restaurants that serve French cuisine, and jazz music, which originated in New Orleans, has strong French influences.
