b) James Armistead Lafayette

James Armistead Lafayette, an African American spy during the Revolution, played a crucial role in the American victory. Masquerading as a runaway slave, he gathered vital intelligence while working for British General Cornwallis. His information on British troop movements was instrumental in the lead-up to the Battle of Yorktown. Lafayette’s espionage highlights the significant, yet often unrecognized, contributions of African Americans in the war. His bravery and the strategic importance of his intelligence demonstrate the diverse and integral roles played by individuals in achieving American independence.