The Tragedy of Benedict Arnold: An American Life

Malcolm's biography traces Benedict Arnold's life from his Connecticut childhood through his military career in the American Revolution. The narrative follows Arnold's path as a successful merchant and ship captain who became one of the Continental Army's most capable commanders. The book examines Arnold's complex relationships with other military leaders and politicians during the Revolutionary period, including George Washington and members of the Continental Congress. Through letters, military records, and personal accounts, Malcolm reconstructs the circumstances and decisions that shaped Arnold's trajectory. The text provides context for Arnold's actions by detailing the political climate, military challenges, and personal hardships he faced throughout the war. Malcolm presents documents and correspondence that reveal Arnold's mindset during key moments of his service. This biography raises questions about loyalty, honor, and the role of personal grievance in shaping historical events. Through Arnold's story, Malcolm explores tensions between individual ambition and national allegiance that remain relevant to modern discourse about patriotism and betrayal.

Readers consider this biography presents a balanced view of Arnold's life, with particular focus on his contributions before becoming a traitor. Many note the thorough research into Arnold's personal letters and financial records. Readers liked: - Clear explanation of Arnold's mounting financial troubles - Coverage of his military achievements and injuries - Context about Revolutionary War politics - Exploration of his relationship with Peggy Shippen Common criticisms: - Too sympathetic toward Arnold - Limited new information for those familiar with Arnold - Some sections drag with financial details - Minimal coverage of his life after defecting Ratings: Goodreads: 3.9/5 (238 ratings) Amazon: 4.3/5 (144 ratings) Representative review: "Malcolm provides insights into Arnold's character through his personal correspondence, but sometimes seems to excuse his actions rather than analyze them objectively." - Goodreads reviewer Most readers recommend it as an accessible introduction to Arnold's life, while scholars may prefer more detailed academic works.

The Glorious Cause: The American Revolution by Robert Middlekauff This biography presents the American Revolution through the perspectives of military commanders on both sides and examines their personal conflicts and motivations.

Washington's General: Nathanael Greene by Terry Golway The life story of Nathanael Greene follows his transformation from a Quaker merchant to George Washington's most trusted general, paralleling Arnold's military rise.

Valiant Ambition: George Washington, Benedict Arnold, and the Fate of the American Revolution by Nathaniel Philbrick This dual biography explores the relationship between Washington and Arnold, tracing the paths that led one to glory and the other to treachery.

American Brutus: John Wilkes Booth and the Lincoln Conspiracies by Michael W. Kauffman The examination of Booth's betrayal of America mirrors Arnold's treachery while revealing the impact of personal ideology on historical events.

The Men Who Lost America by Andrew Jackson O'Shaughnessy This account presents the British side of the American Revolution through its leaders and generals, providing context for the military world Arnold inhabited.

✯ Benedict Arnold was one of America's most successful battlefield commanders before his betrayal, leading crucial victories at Fort Ticonderoga and Saratoga that helped secure American independence. ✯ Author Joyce Lee Malcolm is a Patrick Henry Professor of Constitutional Law and the Second Amendment at George Mason University School of Law, bringing her expertise in early American history to this biography. ✯ Arnold's wife, Peggy Shippen, came from a loyalist family and played a significant role in his decision to switch sides, acting as an intermediary between Arnold and British Major John André. ✯ The book reveals that Arnold's mounting debts and resentment over being passed over for promotion multiple times were major factors in his eventual treason, not just ideological differences. ✯ After his defection to the British side, Arnold led raids against American forces in Virginia and his hometown of New London, Connecticut, earning him particular hatred from his former neighbors and countrymen.