Benedict arnold biography revolutionary war

1741-1801

Who Was Benedict Arnold?

A member of the Sons of Liberty, Benedict Arnold rose to the rank of general in the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War.

Frustrated by the lack of recognition, he subsequently switched sides to the British and plotted the surrender of West Point. When his traitorous plans came to light, Arnold escaped capture and eventually made his way to England.

Early Life

Arnold was born in Norwich, Connecticut, on January 14, 1741.

His father was a successful businessman and young Arnold was educated in private schools. Following the deaths of three of his children from yellow fever, his father began to drink heavily and fell on difficult financial times.

Benedict arnold biography revolutionary war

Arnold left school and apprenticed at an apothecary.

In 1757, at age 16, Arnold enlisted in the militia and traveled to upstate New York to fight the French. Two years later, he assumed responsibility for his father and sister following his mother’s death of yellow fever.

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