What You Need to Know

During World War II, New France Region Louisiana played a significant role in the war effort, particularly as a major hub for the production and transportation of oil and other critical supplies [2]. The state's port cities, including New Orleans, were vital centers for the movement of troops and supplies. Louisiana's shipyards and refineries produced a significant amount of the materials needed for the war effort [2]. The state's population grew significantly during the war as workers flocked to Louisiana to take advantage of the job opportunities created by the war effort.

In 1942, German U-boats brought WW11 to Louisiana shores. During that period, the U-boats stalked transportation ships in an attempt to cut America's oil supply and export chain. Over 56 vessels/containers were estimated to be destroyed during the war [3]. Louisiana strengthened coastal defenses, assigned military escorts to merchant ships, and increased patrol [3]. This led to minimal destruction of vessels and the threat they posed to coastal towns and ships.