Jean Lafitte and the Battle of New Orleans

Explore Jean Lafitte and the Battle of New Orleans to learn about this decisive victory in the War of 1812 and the notorious Frenchman who aided the Americans. In this brief video, former Louisiana Lieutenant Governor Jay Dardenne discusses the battle and its significance with “Jean Lafitte,” the famous privateer connected to the defense of New Orleans. Their conversation highlights how Lafitte and his men supported American forces and why the Battle of New Orleans helped secure victory in the war. 

The clip also addresses the Treaty of Ghent, the agreement that officially ended the War of 1812. Although the treaty was signed before the battle, news had not yet reached the United States. The American victory at New Orleans brought the war to a confident close and helped shape a growing national identity—especially for Louisianans, who had recently become U.S. citizens through the Louisiana Purchase in 1803 and fought alongside Andrew Jackson in this important victory for the United States.