James armistead biography for kids

Who Was James Armistead?

James Armistead was born into slavery in Virginia around With the permission of his master, Armistead enlisted in the Revolutionary War under General Lafayette.

Working as a spy, Armistead gained the trust of General Cornwallis and Benedict Arnold, providing information that allowed American forces to prevail at the Battle of Yorktown. Armistead died in , having successfully petitioned for his freedom in

Early Life

Born into slavery to owner William Armistead around December 10, , in New Kent, Virginia.

James armistead biography for kids

In , James Armistead volunteered to join the U.S. Army in order to fight for the American Revolution. His master granted him permission to join the revolutionary cause, and the American Continental Army stationed Armistead to serve under the Marquis de Lafayette, the commander of allied French forces.

Life as a Spy

Lafayette employed Armistead as a spy, with the hopes of gathering intelligence in regards to enemy movements.

Posing