Who was James Armistead and what did he do?

James Armistead was an enslaved African American, best known for his work as a spy during the American Revolution. Who Was James Armistead? James Armistead was born into slavery in Virginia around 1748. With the permission of his master, Armistead enlisted in the Revolutionary War under General Lafayette.

Why did James Armistead add Lafayette to his name?

Armistead added Lafayette to his name as a token of gratitude and a testament to the bond the former slave and French general shared. The two crossed paths again during Lafayette's grand tour of the United States in 1824, where the general picked James out of a crowd and cordially embraced him. James Armistead Lafayette died in 1832.

Why did William Armistead stop his carriage?

Why did William Armistead stop his carriage?
While in Richmond, he abruptly had his carriage stopped when he saw Armistead in the crowd and rushed to embrace him. Although Virginia passed a manumission act in 1782 allowing for the freedom of any slave who had fought in the Revolution, James Armistead remained the property of William Armistead.

How did Armistead gain the confidence of General Cornwallis?

How did Armistead gain the confidence of General Cornwallis?
While pretending to be a British spy, Armistead gained the confidence of General Benedict Arnold and General Cornwallis. Arnold was so convinced of Armistead's pose as a runaway slave that he used him to guide British troops through local roads.
James Armistead was an enslaved African American in New Kent County, Virginia, when British forces invaded Virginia in 1781. When James learned that General Lafayette had arrived in Virginia to oppose and harass British forces, he volunteered to join Lafayette's Light Infantry. His owner, William Armistead, consented.

Where was James Armistead Lafayette born?

James Armistead Lafayette was born in Virginia. When he was born is in question; some sources place his birth in 1748 where as other sources have it as 1760. He was a slave to William Armistead.

How much pension did James Armistead Lafayette get?

The Virginia legislature eventually granted James Armistead Lafayette a forty dollar annual pension for his service to his country. The famous French General the Marquis de Lafayette, who helped America win its independence, returned to the United States in 1824 and was greeted by thousands of cheering people as he toured the states.

Who wrote the Certificate of commendation of James Armistead?

Who wrote the Certificate of commendation of James Armistead?
In 1784 French General the Marquis de Lafayette wrote a certificate of commendation of James Armistead.