Liverpool

In recent years a paper mill has been this town's economic mainstay, but between the American Revolution and the War of 1812, privateering was the most profitable pursuit. You see, Liverpool was founded in 1759 by New Englanders who turned on their former neighbors with a vengeance. Armed with a "Letter of Marque" from the British crown, they made a booming business out of seizing American ships and the valuable cargo they carried. Such activity was interpreted as political expediency or legalized piracy, depending on which side you were on.