Benedict Arnold

The American Revolution bred many heroes whose courage and leadership on the battlefield helped win independence. But one of America 's greatest commanders found fame as the most notorious traitor in history.

What made Major General Benedict Arnold turn against the cause of his infant country?

Journey back to the battlefields of the Revolution for an in-depth look at a career of stunning victories that went unrewarded. Despite defeating the British at Ticonderoga, nearly making Canada America's 14^th colony with the victory in the Battle of Saratoga and engaging British warships in Lake Champlain in America's first naval battle, Arnold was continually passed over for promotion. Thomas Fleming, author of 1776: Year of Illusions, relates how the breaking point came when Arnold was nearly court martialed. Soon afterwards, British spy John Andre was captured with documents Arnold gave him, and Benedict was forced to go over to the British side.

This is the tragic tale of a man who eventually felt abandoned by every cause he espoused; whose luck in battle was not matched anywhere else in his life.

"Aiden Quinn does well in the title role...Grammer [gives] George Washington both a heroism and a humanity that so seldom coexist in screen portrayals of Great Men."-- Mark Zimmer, Digitally Obsessed

He was perhaps the finest commander in the Continental Army. But he will always be remembered as a traitor who turned his back on America in its hour of need.

This original film from A&E Network Studios tells the true story of BENEDICT ARNOLD. After winning important victories for the breakaway colonies, Arnold is driven to resign by an ungrateful Congress. Coaxed back into service by his old friend George Washington, he is soon enmeshed in the divisive politics of Revolutionary Philadelphia . And when his love for a loyalist woman leads to scandal--and the Colonial leaders fail to support him--the stage is set for his fateful decision.

Viewing Activities

While viewing the movie, consider the following topics:

- The role of Arnold at the Battle of Saratoga .

-The friendship between George Washington and Benedict Arnold

-Arnold’s frustrations with other Revolutionary leaders.

-The living conditions of the common soldier.

-Peggy Shippen Arnold’s influence on her husband.

-The decision to “turn traitor”.

- The major cause of Arnold ’s treason

Paper Outline

- Why did Benedict Arnold choose to betray his country?

- What influenced him the most?

- What is irony?

- How does Arnold ’s career illustrate irony?

- Why is loyalty honored?

- Is loyalty always right?