Benedict Arnold’s name is synonymous with traitor. That’s sometimes the only thing we remember about him. However, he was much more. He was brave to the point of recklessness, a brilliant strategist and a charismatic leader. His capture of Fort Ticonderoga was instrumental in helping to end the war. His attack on Quebec illustrates his ability to inspire men to follow him. Arnold was also thin-skinned feeling he didn’t get the recognition he deserved. His feelings of betrayal were not completely unjustified. The congress overlooked him several times for promotion raising men in lesser positions to higher rank.
When Arnold suffered a severe injury, he had time to brood on his injustices. This is apparently what led him to accept the British offer and start passing them military intelligence. While it’s easy to speculate that money was the lure that drove Arnold to treason, he was a sensitive individual who felt he had many grievances. This may have played a part in his decision.
This is a well researched biography. I particularly liked the quotations from period sources. I think this is a great addition to the history of the Revolutionary War period. The book was easy to follow. I felt I learned a great deal.
Thanks to the published and Net Galley for this review copy.
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