Mardi Gras Indians: Then and Now

We've learned about the history of the Mardi Gras, which is rooted in relations of Native Americans aiding runaway African slaves. At that point in history their relationship was needed to help the African runaways. Now, Mardi Gras Indians are used more as social tool. With elaborate handmade costumes Mardi Gras Indians have apparences at many local events: Jazz Fest, Super Sunday, and (of course) Mardi Gras.

The Mardi Gras Indians are also broken up into tribes. All the tribes make their own apparences and have their own events.

This Mardi Gras Indian culture was not immune to the damage of Katrina. A lot of participants did not return to the city for a variety of reasons. With eighty percent of the city being submerged in water many of their costumes were destroyed with their houses. The costumes are hand made and can weigh up to 150 pounds and take long periods of time to make. Although not every one is back Mardi Gras Indians as a whole withstood Katrina and are still a prominent aspect in the city.

Here's a Video from National Geographic in which a local explains the history of Mardi Gras Indians.

Take a look at the extravagant costumes, all made by hand!