Several studies have chronicled the New Orleans Rebellion of 1768 which stemmed from france’s transfer of the Louisiana colony to Spain at the end of the French and Indian War. However, most accounts have been based almost exclusively on Spanish sources. By blending the French documentary record with existing scholarly accounts this study presents a fresh perspective on the Rebellion. The role of the ordonnateur Denis-Nicolas Foucault, long a controversial aspect of the Rebellion, is also amplified.

Of special interest are the shortcomings of French colonial policy toward Louisiana, especially the lack of financial and material support, and failure to provide appropriate instructions to Louisiana colonial officials. The role of rivalries between French colonial officials and the long delay between the cession of Louisiana to Spain and the assumption of power by Spanish colonial officials are also described.