Published in 1821, THE SPY took for its theme the American Revolutionary War. Cooper vividly describes the conflicting interests of British and Americans in this tale of valor, fortitude and danger.Harvey Birch is the hero, a true American and patriot. Birch's various disguises and incredible escapes rivet our attention. He is one of the most memorable characters in American literature, drawn so realistically that many men claimed to be the actual person Cooper had depicted. Flight and hot pursuit, contrasting styles of gentlemen and country folk, and the exciting historical events surrounding our revolution make this story as stirring today as it was on its publication more than a century and a half ago.