Which Irish soldier of fortune governed New Orleans with strict authority in 1769?

The correct answer is General Alexander O'Reilly, who governed New Orleans with strict authority in 1769. O'Reilly was an Irish soldier of fortune who played a crucial role during a significant period in New Orleans' history. He was sent by the Spanish Crown to take control of the territory following a series of uprisings against the previous governor, Antonio de Ulloa. O'Reilly implemented a series of reforms and established order in the colony, reorganizing its military and civil administration. His leadership was characterized by a strong emphasis on discipline and governance, which allowed him to stabilize the region during a time of unrest.

In contrast, John Law was a Scottish financier and the controller-general of finances for France, known for his economic policies that led to the Mississippi Bubble. Don Antoine de Ulloa was the first Spanish governor of Louisiana and faced significant resistance from the colonists, leading to his removal by O'Reilly. Pierre Le Moyne d'Iberville was a French explorer and founder of the colony, but he was not involved in governing during the specified time. O'Reilly's authoritative governance marked a defining moment in the establishment of Spanish authority in Louisiana.