From Cuisine to Culture - the French American Influence
French American Heritage Month celebrates the history, culture and lasting contributions of French Americans to the United States. Discover how their influence continues to shape our communities, traditions and everyday lives.
July is French American Heritage Month, a time to recognize the lasting influence of French Americans on our nation's history, culture and communities. It is an opportunity to learn more about the people, traditions and ideas that have helped shape the United States from its earliest days through the present.
French influence can be found across the country in ways many people may not realize. Early French explorers, settlers and traders played an important role in mapping North America and establishing communities throughout the Midwest, the Mississippi River Valley and Louisiana. Today, cities such as New Orleans continue to reflect French traditions through their architecture, cuisine, music, language and annual celebrations.
French Americans have also made significant contributions in science, engineering, education, business, the arts and public service. Their achievements have helped drive innovation, strengthen communities and enrich American culture. French culinary traditions have become a familiar part of everyday life, while French artists, writers and thinkers have influenced everything from literature and fashion to philosophy and design.
Some notable French Americans include:
Julia Child: Although famously from Pasadena, California, she cultivated America's love for French cuisine through her book, Mastering the Art of French Cooking, and her television series, The French Chef, after studying at Paris's Le Cordon Bleu.
Marquis de Lafayette: A French military officer who volunteered to fight for the Continental Army under General George Washington in the American Revolution. He played a crucial role in securing vital French support and commanded troops at the decisive Siege of Yorktown in 1781.
Pierre Charles L'Enfant: An architect and engineer who arrived in the American colonies in 1777. He is best known for designing the street layout and capital plan for Washington, D.C., in 1791.
Jean-Baptiste Point du Sable: A pioneer and trader of French and African descent who is widely recognized as the first permanent resident and founder of what is now Chicago, Illinois.
Louis Chevrolet: A Swiss-born French racing driver who immigrated to the US. In 1911, he co-founded the Chevrolet Motor Car Company in Detroit, shaping the trajectory of the American automotive industry.
For many families, French American Heritage Month is also a chance to celebrate personal connections to their ancestry. Across the country, communities host cultural festivals, concerts, museum exhibits, language programs and historical events that highlight the rich traditions and enduring legacy of French Americans. Even if you do not have French heritage, this month offers an opportunity to experience a different culture by trying a new recipe, visiting a local museum, reading a book by a French or French American author, or learning a few words in French.
Recognizing heritage months reminds us that our differences strengthen our communities. Learning about the diverse backgrounds and experiences of others helps build understanding, appreciation and respect for the many cultures that contribute to our shared history.
If you would like to learn more about French American Heritage Month, here are a few places to find educational resources, historical information, and cultural programming:
