The name Benedict brings to mind the earliest spies in America. Despite what many people think, Benedict Arnold's behavior was not all bad. But, due to some choices he made, he in now one of the most famous traitors in history. Before he turned though, he was, in fact, a very courageous and useful general in the Continental army.
His betrayal of America's Army was probably a result of several disappointments he had with the Army. In February of 1777, for example, he was passed over for promotion by congress, which appointed five new major generals. George Washington talked Arnold, who had more seniority than any of the men promoted, out of leaving the army. Later that same year, Arnold was seriously wounded in the battle of Bennis heights that was won by the Americans. Arnold took command of Philadelphia in 1778. There he married a woman, that, without whose influence, Arnold may not have betrayed America. Arnold was accused of living in extravagance and using the Military for his personal favors. George Washington reprimanded him in addition to the court martial. After these disturbing events, Arnold brooded over what he considered to be injustices. During this time, he began to correspond with the enemy.
As commander of West Point, Arnold began to devise a way to surrender the premises to the British General Sir Henry Clinton. The capture of British Major John Andre, who was carrying papers for Arnold to be delivered to Clinton, was the key to Arnold's betrayal. He was not arrested however, for he escaped to New York City and became a Brigadier in the British Army.
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