James armistead (key person #2)

1760-1830

James Armistead was an African American spy, during the Revolution. He was stationed to serve under Marquis de Lafayette, the Commander of the French forces, allied with the Patriots. While working for Lafayette, he successfully infiltrated British General Charles Cornwallis' headquarters, posing as a runaway slave, hired by the British. Arnold was so convinced of Armistead's pose as a runaway slave, that he used him to guide British troops through local roads. James was important, because he risked his life for the Americans freedom, to spy.