Dimensions
142 x 223 x 35mm
The Extraordinary Story of the Most Audacious Fraud in History.
This remarkable book tells, for the first time, the story of one of the greatest frauds in history - a story as colourful and bizarre as the man who masterminded it.
Once upon a time, in the heart of Central America, there was a country called Poyais. It was a country exceptionally rich in natural resources, civilisation and culture, and was ruled by a brave and enlightened Scottish soldier, General Sir Gregor MacGregor, who had been made its cazique, or prince, after his many heroic exploits in the cause of South America's struggle to liberate itself from the Spanish empire.
In 1821, the Cazique of Poyais and his beautiful princess arrived in Britain to promote the virtues of their country and encourage immigration and investment. They rapidly became celebrities, honoured with an official welcome from the Lord Mayor of London, feted in the press, and enthusiastically sought after in the best social circles.
Within a year, Sir Gregor MacGregor had persuaded thousands to subscribe to a 200,000 pound development loan he floated on the London stock market. More importantly, he had succeeded in attracting hundreds of would-be settlers, many from his native Scotland, who set out on the long and perilous journey to this promised land - a journey from which the majority would never return.
It was not until some time later that the truth about Poyais and its prince began to emerge . . .
