To understand how New Orleans became one of the most diverse cities in America, one must learn about its early history. The city was founded on May 7, 1718 as a French colony. It soon established itself as an important trading port. The colony was then ceded to the Spanish Empire in 1763.

Question

In 1801, New Orleans reverted again to French control but only for two years. In 1803, Napoleon, who was then the Emperor of France, sold the territory to the United States in the Louisiana Purchase. Thereafter, the city grew rapidly with influxes of Americans, French, Creoles, Irish, Germans, and Africans.
Because of New Orleans' prime location as a port on the Gulf of Mexico, the city played a large role in the Atlantic slave trade. At the same time, it had the largest and most prosperous community of free African Americans in the nation. They were often educated and middle-class property owners. In 1872, an African-American man named P.B.S. Pinchback became governor of Louisiana, making him the first non-white governor of a U.S. state.
Today, visitors to New Orleans can witness firsthand the cultural diversity that makes the city unique. Locals speak with an accent that cannot be heard elsewhere. It reminds one of the city's French, Spanish, and African influences. Additionally, visitors can still see examples of early French Architecture in the French Quarter. These ornate buildings date back to the 18th Century, when the city was technically under Spanish control.
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What is the central idea of this passage?
A.
Due to its history, New Orleans is a diverse city.
B.
New Orleans architecture reminds us of its history.
C.
New Orleans was the first city with a non-white mayor.
D.
Citizens of New Orleans speak with a French accent.

Answer 1

A. Due to its history, New Orleans is a diverse city.