James Lafayette
What was James Lafayette’s role in the American Revolution?
He was a spy.
True or False: Spies only worked for the American side in the Revolution.
something you say, give, or do to show respect and admiration for someone or something.
TRIBUTE
Who was the leader of the Continental Army?
George Washington
In what year did the American Revolution begin?
1775
What false story did James tell the British to gain their trust?
That he was an escaped enslaved person who wanted to join their side.
What is a “double agent”?
Someone who pretends to spy for one side while secretly working for another.
written request signed by many people
PETITION
What European country helped America in the war by sending troops and ships?
France
What was the major battle where Cornwallis surrendered?
The Battle of Yorktown
What skill helped James gather information from British officers?
He could understand English and French, allowing him to listen in on conversations.
What important strategy did American spies use to deliver messages safely?
They used invisible ink, codes, and dead drops.
to plan it or come up with ideas about how it should go
DEVISE
Who was the British general leading forces in Virginia during the war?
General Charles Cornwallis)
How did Washington trick the British before the Yorktown attack?
He built fake bread ovens to make them think the army was staying in New York.
How did James’s spying help General Washington and the American forces?
He provided intelligence on British troop movements, helping plan attacks.
What was a “spy ring”?
A group of spies working together to pass information secretly.
used to mean “information or news”
INTELLIGENCE
What was one major struggle the American army faced during the war?
Lack of money, supplies, and soldiers.)
What role did French forces play in the Battle of Yorktown?
They helped block the British escape by sea and supported the American attack.
How did James Lafayette eventually gain his freedom?
He petitioned the Virginia government with support from Marquis de Lafayette.
How did spies like James Lafayette deceive the British into trusting them?
They acted as loyal supporters, provided false information, and blended into their surroundings.
Refers to a scoundrel—a dishonest or untrustworthy person
ROGUE
What document officially ended the American Revolution?
The Treaty of Paris, 1783.)
How did James Lafayette contribute to the success of the Battle of Yorktown?
He provided intelligence that helped trap Cornwallis’s army.