The Pirates Laffite

At large during the most colourful period in American history, from just after the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, through the War of 1812, privateers Jean and Pierre Laffite made life hell for Spanish merchants on the Gulf. Pirates to the U.S. Navy officers who chased them, heroes to the private citizens who shopped for contraband at their well-publicized auctions, the brothers became important members of a filibustering syndicate that included lawyers, bankers, merchants, and corrupt U.S. officials. But this allegiance didn't stop the Laffites from becoming paid Spanish spies, disappearing into the fog of history after selling out their own associates. This fascinating volume uncovers the truth about two men who made their names synonymous with piracy and intrigue on the Gulf.