Benedict Arnold –American Traitor
Benedict Arnold was a member of the Sons of Liberty and began his career as a militia
captain. At first, he was seen as a heroic soldier and leader. He was well-respected by his men
and by other military leaders. Over time, however, he became a divisive figure in the
Continental Army. He was accused of corruption many times. Several men of lower ranks were
promoted ahead of Arnold. This led to a great deal of resentment on his part and eventually
became a reason for his choice to become a traitor.
In the spring of 1778, Arnold was appointed military commander of Philadelphia by
George Washington. There, Arnold met and married a young lady named Peggy, daughter of a
Loyalist. With the encouragement of his new wife, Arnold began to communicate with John
Andre, a Major in the British Army. Soon, Arnold was secretly sharing military information with
the British, including troop and supply locations.
In August 1780, Arnold assumed command of West Point, an American fort on New
York’s Hudson River. He continued to secretly share sensitive military information with British
commanders. He also purposely weakened the fort by refusing to order neede d repairs and
necessary supplies.
On September 21, 1780, Arnold met John Andre in person to make a traitorous deal. He
planned to hand over West Point and the men underhis command to the British. Major Andre
wascaptured several days later and executed for hisrole in the plan. Papers revealing
BenedictArnold’s involvement in the plan were handed over to General George Washington.
Benedict Arnold escaped before he could be captured and went on to lead British troops
against the Continental Army. He was promised many things by the British but was never paid
in full. He died in London, England in 1801.