Jean Lafitte

Definition

Jean Lafitte (also spelt Laffite, c. 1780 to c. 1820 CE) was a Franco-American leader of pirates and privateers who captured merchant vessels of various states in the Gulf of Mexico from 1810 to 1820. Lafitte proved an invaluable ally for the United States in the War of 1812 and the 1815 Battle of New Orleans, assisting General Andrew Jackson (1767-1845) to victory against the British.

More about: Jean Lafitte

Timeline

  • c. 1780 - c. 1821
    Life of the pirate leader Jean Lafitte who operated in the Gulf of Mexico.
  • 1810
    The pirate leader Jean Lafitte makes his base at Barataria Bay.
  • 1812
    The pirates Pierre and Jean Lafitte are arrested by the Louisiana authorities and sheduled for trial, but they escape their bail.
  • Sep 1814
    The British try to recruit the pirate leader Jean Lafitte for their attack on New Orleans.
  • Dec 1814
    General Andrew Jackson recruits the pirate leader Jean Lafitte for help in the defence of New Orleans.
  • 8 Jan 1815
    The pirate leader Jean Lafitte assists General Andrew Jackson in the successful defence of New Orleans against a British attack.
  • 1817
    The pirate leader Jean Lafitte establishes a new base at Gavleston, Texas.
  • 1821
    A U.S. warship drives Jean Lafitte from Galveston.
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