In Britain during the early 1820s, the Caribbean paradise of Poyais was a shimmering magnet that drew the wealthy and the would-be to a life of ease and opportunity.

War with France was over, and England was flush with cash at a time when low interest rates enticed people to play the market and take more risks than usual.

Several Latin American countries had just gained independence from Spain and were floating bonds to finance their new governments in an area of the world synonymous with adventure and everything exotic.

Enter Scottish soldier and entrepreneur Gregor MacGregor. Having grown up at the edge of the aristocracy, the ambitious man wanted more status and money. He got it by marrying the daughter of a Royal Navy admiral.

Paying to become captain of his regiment, MacGregor was on his way up. But then his wife died, and her family cut off his money. So he went to Venezuela and fought with rebels against Spain. In two decisive battles, he abandoned his troops, who loathed him for his cowardice and incompetence.

But when he returned to England, few knew the truth.

Besides, MacGregor married another rich woman — the cousin of famous Latin American revolutionary Simon Bolivar. Then, using his cred and connections, the businessman began advertising the idyllic life in the country of Poyais, an area now on the eastern shore of Honduras.

He owned 8 million acres, thanks to political ties.

During........

© Sarnia Observer