Jean Baptiste: Louisiana's Creoles of Color and the Civil War puts the spotlight on a little-known part of Civil War history.
Many free Creoles of color in antebellum Louisiana enjoy wealth derived from a slave-based economy. Some own large plantations and live in fine homes. Hence, at the outbreak of the war, a substantial number support the South. Even so, all remain committed firmly to the pursuit of full citizenship. The more radical component wants to end slavery. These are monumental changes that most believe impossible unless the North wins. This troubling paradox leads to confrontations and even physical violence. Dark secrets and hidden passions surface. Some families band together, others split apart.
It's a most trying time for Louisiana's Creoles of color. Their story is told through the lives of two of their very courageous young people, Jean Baptiste and Adélaïde Marie. The two meet when Jean Baptiste seeks medical help for a wound sustained fighting slave catchers. Adélaïde Marie, the beautiful young daughter of a Yankee medical doctor removes the bullet from his arm and puts joy in his heart. Together they bravely oppose the Confederacy and slavery. Follow their intriguing journey through love and war.
