What changes a military hero from a great patriot to a treasonous traitor? Benedict Arnold is the only man in our history to be a military hero for both sides. He is known to most in our country as a traitor but without his valiant efforts in battle against the British forces our country may not be singing the National Anthem but God Save the Queen. His passion for defeating the enemy in the end was what defeated him. What was the turning point in this patriots career? The Saratoga campaign was a series of battles fought during the months of June through October in 1777 in New York. During these battles it was Arnold who led the Americans to defeat Britains armed forces. Although it was General Horatio Gates who was in charge it was Arnolds action that helped lead them to victory. During the Battle of Saratoga, specifically at Freemans Farm, the Americans were retreating but Arnold would not accept that. He got on his white horse and led a brilliant charge against the British. It was during this charge that Arnolds leg was crushed beneath his horse. This gallant effort single handedly got the retreating American troops into a charge against the enemy, which in the end created a victory for the Americans and convinced the French to enter the war. This was such an important event in the American Revolution that one of his solider would later write that he was the very genius of war. In fact, the enemy also held this viewpoint, for it was British General Johnny Burgoyne who said that it was because of Arnold that he surrendered. However, not everyone saw Arnold in this light. Arnold angered General Gates because of his constant defiance. Gates didnt want Arnold to fight because if a previous injury. This made Arnold, who was known for his loud voice and hot temper, furious. This caused General gates to become jealous and because of his sheer pettiness Gates would strip Arnold of his command. After the battle Arnold ...
