Turncoat: Benedict Arnold and the Crisis of American Liberty

Turncoat examines Benedict Arnold's transformation from American military hero to British defector during the Revolutionary War. Through extensive research and primary sources, historian Stephen Brumwell reconstructs Arnold's path from his early life through his military career. The book traces Arnold's battlefield accomplishments and wounds suffered in service of the American cause, alongside his mounting frustrations with Congress and rival officers. Brumwell details Arnold's personal relationships, financial troubles, and the evolving political climate that influenced his decisions. The narrative follows the secret negotiations and clandestine meetings that preceded Arnold's attempted handover of West Point to British forces. Key figures in the plot, including Arnold's wife Peggy Shippen and British spy chief John André, emerge as crucial players in the events. This biography explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the complex personal choices made during revolution. Through Arnold's story, Brumwell illuminates the fluid nature of allegiance and identity in colonial America, where the line between patriot and traitor could shift with changing circumstances.

Readers note this biography offers new perspectives on Arnold's motivations and character through extensive research and primary sources. The book examines Arnold's background, injuries, and financial troubles that contributed to his decision. Liked: - Detailed coverage of Arnold's Quebec expedition and military accomplishments - Clear explanation of the financial/political pressures he faced - Fair and balanced portrayal without making excuses - Inclusion of letters and documents that reveal Arnold's mindset Disliked: - Dense military details slow the narrative pace - Some found the writing style dry and academic - Limited coverage of Arnold's later life after defection Ratings: Goodreads: 3.9/5 (97 ratings) Amazon: 4.4/5 (84 ratings) A reviewer on Amazon noted: "Brumwell digs deeper than previous biographies into Arnold's complex motivations without sensationalizing." A Goodreads reviewer commented that "the level of detail on battles and troop movements becomes tedious at times."

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The Traitor's Wife by Allison Pataki The story of Peggy Shippen Arnold presents Benedict Arnold's betrayal through the lens of his manipulative wife's social and political machinations.

Valiant Ambition by Nathaniel Philbrick A parallel narrative of George Washington and Benedict Arnold traces their relationship from friendship to betrayal against the backdrop of the American Revolution.

The First Conspiracy by Brad Meltzer An investigation of a 1776 plot to assassinate George Washington reveals the networks of spies and counterspies operating in Revolutionary New York.

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🔶 Despite his infamous betrayal, Benedict Arnold was one of the most skilled military commanders of the American Revolution, leading crucial victories at Fort Ticonderoga and Saratoga before switching sides. 🔶 Author Stephen Brumwell spent over a decade researching Arnold's life, including examining previously untapped British military archives to provide new insights into Arnold's motivations. 🔶 Arnold's wife, Peggy Shippen, came from a wealthy loyalist family and played a significant role in connecting him with British intelligence, particularly Major John André. 🔶 Before becoming a traitor, Arnold sustained multiple serious combat injuries fighting for the American cause, including a severely wounded leg at Quebec and Saratoga that left him partially disabled. 🔶 The book reveals that Arnold's initial asking price for betraying West Point was £20,000 (approximately $4 million in today's money), though he ultimately accepted a smaller sum of £6,000 plus an annual pension.