James Armistead Lafayette

William Armistead of Virginia owned an African American slave named James Armistead. James received permission from his master to join the Continental Army and served under French commander Marquis de Lafayette. He began his career as a spy for Lafayette by delivering intelligence reports across enemy lines. In 1781, Armistead posed as an escaped slave who was loyal to the British in the camp of traitor Benedict Arnold. Arnold immediately acquired his trust, and he utilized him to direct British forces through the local roads. After that, James proceeded to the camp of British General Charles Cornwallis, who hired him as a spy for the British.

As a double spy, James began giving fake intelligence to the British, which he received from Lafayette while giving the Americans very accurate and thorough details. James gave the most crucial intelligence report on Cornwallis's advance from Portsmouth to Yorktown, as well as the arrival of 10,000 British troops at Yorktown. This knowledge was crucial in assisting the Continental Army in defeating the British at the decisive Conflict of Yorktown, the Revolutionary War's final major battle.

Despite putting his life on the line for his country, James Armistead was returned to his owner at the end of the war. Lafayette, on the other hand, offered a testimonial in 1784 affirming his vital role as a spy. As a result, James Armistead became a free man in 1787, and he changed his name to James Armistead Lafayette as a token of appreciation to the Frenchman.

Lifespan: 1748 – 1830

Nationality: American