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Definition of jean laffite in English English dictionary
- born 1780?, France died 1825? French pirate. He led a band of privateers that preyed on Spanish ships and smuggled goods and slaves through New Orleans, where the group lived on islands south of the city. In the War of 1812 the British offered Laffite $30,000 for his allegiance in their planned attack on the city. He warned Louisiana officials of the attack but was not believed. He then offered his aid to Gen. Andrew Jackson, who accepted Laffite's help in the Battle of New Orleans. After the war Laffite returned to privateering against the Spanish