Diverse Patriots African Americans P5

Although Virginia passed a law granting freedom for slaves who fought as soldiers, James’ work as a spy did not qualify him for freedom under that law. In 1784, General Lafayette wrote a note praising the vital contributions of Armistead, which was presented to members of the legislature. Armistead then petitioned for his freedom, which was eventually granted.

Following his emancipation, James adopted the name Lafayette and thereafter was known as James Lafayette. (In his later years, he was also given a military retirement pension from the state.)

Decades later in 1824, General Lafayette, returned to America from France for a final farewell visit. Still a popular and well-known American hero, Lafayette’s journey across the nation was greeted by thousands in city after city. When touring Richmond, he looked out over the crowd and recognized his black comrade from forty years earlier. He called to James and they warmly embraced. James, like Lafayette, was a true American hero.

More on this next week for another American Moment.

Sourced from The American Story: The Beginnings by David Barton and Tim Barton.