Benedict Arnold

Benedict Arnold
Benedict Arnold was a famous American General. He led the American troops to victory in the Battle of Saratoga during the American Revolutionary War. However, because he gave information to the British Army, he became known as a traitor. Benedict Arnold was born on January 14, 1741 in Norwich, Connecticut. As a young man, Arnold apprenticed at an apothecary business and served in the militia during the French and Indian War. In 1767, Arnold, whom became a prosperous traitor, married Margaret Mansfield. The couple had three children before Margaret’s death in 1775. He was a member of the Sons of Liberty in the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War. In December 31, 1775 American forces under Benedict Arnold failed to seize Quebec. The reason why Benedict Arnold was named a traitor was, because he switched sides and fought for the British. At the outbreak of the war, Arnold participated in the capture of the British garrison of Fort Ticonderoga in 1775. In 1776, he hindered a British invasion of New York at the Battle of Lake Champlain. The following year, he played a crucial role in bringing about the surrender of British General John Burgoyne's (1722-92) army at Saratoga. Yet Arnold never received the recognition he thought he deserved. In 1779, he entered into secret negotiations with the British, agreeing to turn over the U.S. post at West Point in return for money and a command in