Benedict Arnold Commits Treason at West Point

Context

By 1780 the Revolutionary War had entered its sixth year, with neither side able to deliver a decisive blow. General George Washington’s Continental Army had endured harsh winters and shifting fortunes, yet it still held key defensive positions along the Hudson River that could control access to the interior colonies. West Point, a fortified position overlooking the river, was among the most vital of these strongholds.

What Happened

Arnold, once celebrated for his role in victories at Saratoga and elsewhere, had grown resentful over perceived slights in promotion and mounting personal debts. After marrying the Loyalist sympathizer Peggy Shippen, he began secret correspondence with British commander Sir Henry Clinton, offering to surrender West Point and its garrison in exchange for £20,000 and a British commission. On September 21 Arnold met British Major John André at the Joshua Hett Smith House near Haverstraw, New York, to finalize the details and hand over plans of the fort’s defenses.

Aftermath

The plot collapsed the following day when American militiamen captured André as he attempted to return to British lines; incriminating documents were found in his boot. André was tried and hanged as a spy, while Arnold received advance warning and escaped aboard the British sloop Vulture to New York City. Washington, who had placed great trust in his subordinate, learned of the betrayal with dismay and immediately ordered tightened security at West Point.

Legacy

Arnold’s defection became the enduring American emblem of treason, forever linking his name with betrayal in the national memory. The episode prompted greater scrutiny of officers and fortifications but ultimately strengthened resolve among Patriots, who viewed the failed plot as further evidence of British desperation and American resilience. In later years Arnold led raids for the British in Virginia and Connecticut before retiring to England, where he lived out his life in relative obscurity.