American Scandal - Benedict Arnold | The Hero of Saratoga | 1

Episode Date: October 13, 2026

Revolutionary war general Benedict Arnold inspires American forces to a pivotal victory. But instead of being hailed as a hero, Arnold faces stolen credit, political attacks, mounting debt, and public humiliation. Pushed to his breaking point, he begins down the path toward the most infamous betrayal in American history.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hello, American Scandal listeners. The live show I've been telling you about for a few weeks has a new date, October 23rd at the Plaza Theater in Garland, Texas. This is my Days That Made America Tour, a thrilling evening of history, storytelling, and music with me and a band live on stage. So if you're in the North Texas area or anywhere close, be sure to come out and see me live.

And more shows will be announced soon. For information on tickets and upcoming dates, go to American History Live.com. That's American History Live.com. Come see my Days that Made America Tour, live on stage. Go to American History Live.com. American scandal uses dramatizations that are based on true events. Some elements, including dialogue, might be invented, but everything is based on historical research.

It's the morning of September 25th, 1780, in Garrison, New York. Peggy Arnold sits at her bedroom window, gently rocking her infant's son against her shoulder, She parts the curtain and looks across the fields to the glittering waters of the Hudson River. Below her, the house is stirring to life. Peggy can hear servants crossing the floorboards, stoking fires, and laying out breakfast. They're preparing for an important visitor. Later this morning, the most powerful man in the Continental Army is expected in garrison, commander-in-chief George Washington. He's coming to visit West Point, the fortress on the other side of the Hudson. After nearly five years of war against the British, West Point is the single most important

fortification in the American Rebellion, and it's under the command of Peggy's husband, Benedict Arnold. But over the familiar rhythms of the household staff, there's suddenly a new and more urgent noise, boots moving quickly up the stairs. Peggy turns as her husband rushes in. Arnold presses the door shut behind him, his face drain of color. Peggy frowns. What's wrong? John Andre has been captured. What? He was stopped by militiamen near Terrytown. They know he's a British officer. How? I don't know. I don't know. He was so close to the British lines, too. You told me everything was going to plan. It was. Can he be traced back to us?

He had papers, plans of West Point. They were written in my hand. Oh, dear God, you'll be hanged. Arnold marches back and forth, incapable of standing still. A HMS vulture may still be on the river. If I leave now, I may be able to reach her. Once I'm aboard, the British will protect me. Peggy stands still holding their baby, and we will come with you. Arnold shakes his head. There's no time. You cannot mean to leave us here.

If we flee together, we condemn us both. Arnold reaches out and strokes the back of his son's head. And what would become of him then? No, no, you must stay. But Washington will be here at any moment. What am I to say to him? That I was urgently called to West Point. Tell him I'll return before dinner.

and when he finds out the truth, say that I lied to you too, that you knew nothing of what I planned. He'll believe you. What if he does not? Arnold takes his wife's hand. He will, and I must go. Peggy nods, but doesn't release her grip. We shall see each other again. I'm sure of it.

All right then. Go now and leave Washington to me. Benedict Arnold hurries out of the room and leaves his wife Peggy and their son behind. Any minute now, George Washington will walk into the room. the house expecting to find the commander of West Point. Peggy will have to cover for Arnold to give him time to escape, but it's not just his future that's at risk. If Peggy is to have any hope of protecting herself and her infant son, she'll have to put on the performance of a lifetime. Hi, I'm Lindsay Graham, the host of American history tellers. In our latest series, in 1892,

as millions of hopeful immigrants arrive on American shores, the United States opens a new immigration station on Ellis Island. But over time, some will find that the game, Gates to the American Dream are shut to them. Listen to American history tellers on Audible or wherever you get your podcasts. I'm Lauren Malloy, the host of the podcast, My Mom's Murder. For 30 years, I thought my mom died of natural causes. That's what everyone told me. That's what I believed.

Until one day, I got a phone call that changed everything. A woman claiming to be my mom's best friend told me my mother was murdered and that no one had ever investigated it. So I did what the detectives wouldn't, pulled the threads, knocked on doors, and confronted the contradictions. And what I found, it's worse than I imagined. Something happened to my mom.

Someone killed her. And I won't stop until I find out who. The system may have given up on my mom, but I never will. Listen to my mom's murder wherever you get your podcasts. Audible subscribers can binge all 10 episodes early and ad-free right now. Join Audible in the Audible app or by subscribing on Apple Podcasts. From Audible Originals, I'm Lindsay Graham, and this is American Scandal.

Benedict Arnold occupies a singular place in the American imagination. Calling someone a Benedict Arnold is a grave accusation. His name has become synonymous with traitor, but his story is much more complicated than the single act of betrayal that made him so notorious. Before Benedict Arnold became the most infamous traitor in American history, he had been one of its greatest heroes. In 1777, two years into the war, the revolution hung by a thread. The British controlled New York City, the most important harbor in North America.

Their armies had captured several other major cities, and the Hudson River Valley was in their sights. If the British seized this region, they would be able to split New England from the rest of the colonies and cut out the political and military heart of the revolution. By isolating it, the British hope they could crush the rebellion and end the war. But Benedict Arnold stood in their path. His bravery and brilliance in battle should have secured his place among the great heroes of early American history.

Instead, Arnold would come to believe his sacrifices had been repaid with humiliation and financial ruin. And when he concluded that he would never receive the recognition he deserved, he decided to take revenge against the country he'd fought to create. This is episode one, the hero of Saratoga. It's September 19, 1777 in northern New York. American Major General Horatio Gates and his second-in-command General Benedict Arnold sit atop Beamas Heights.

The 100-foot bluff overlooks the Hudson River and the miles of dense forest and rolling farmland that's around it. Arnold peers down at the dark trees below. Hidden there in the wilderness is the British Army. They're advancing toward the city of Albany, 20 miles to the south, but to get there, they must pass General Gates and his men. Earlier this morning, scouts sent forward by Arnold returned with crucial intelligence. They discovered nearly 1,600 British soldiers stationed at a clearing called Freeman's Farm.

Arnold believes this information has given them a priceless opportunity. They can strike first and take the British by surprise. But so far, General Gates has refused to send men forward. His troops hold the high ground, and he wants to stay put and force the British to attack them. But Arnold can't let it go. He argues his case repeatedly, and eventually he wears his superior down. Gates reluctantly agrees to launch an assault on the British position. But Arnold can only deploy the men under his direct command, the Army's left wing.

Gates' other troops, as well as all his senior officers, including Arnold, must remain safely on Bemis Heights. Nevertheless, Arnold leaps at the chance and sends his men forward, and soon there's the steady crack of musket fire in the forest below. Gunpowder smoke drifts up through the treetops, but to Arnold's frustration from Bemis Heights, that's all that can be seen. The fight that must be taking place at Freeman's farm is otherwise invisible. Arnold paces the bluff impatiently, begging General Gates to let him ride to the front, where he can direct the battle himself. But Gates is steadfast, all senior officers must remain where they are. Eventually, Arnold can't take it anymore. Defying General Gates, he gallops away toward the battlefield. But he hasn't gone far when he hears

shouts and hoves behind him. A colonel catches up, having been sent by Gates with direct orders for Arnold to return to Bemis Heights. Seathing, Arnold rides back to the bluff where he can only listen to the rest of the battle. As daylight fades, Arnold watches his troops limp back through the tree line. It seems the Americans have lost, and that General Gates's caution has been justified. But in the hours that follow the battle, a different picture emerges. Although the fight at Freeman's farm was a tactical victory for the British, it came at a staggering cost. The British suffer huge casualties, but by contrast, the Americans who have only lost about 150 men. And as a result of Benedict Arnold's bold move, the British advance on Albany has been stalled. Around camp, Arnold is

celebrated as a hero, and many of his fellow officers credit him for the army's success. But when Gates submits his official report to Congress, he doesn't mention Arnold or his men at all. Instead, Gates presents the battle as his own victory. Arnold is outraged, especially as this is not the first time he's felt cheated of recognition. Arnold was an early and outspoken supporter of the revolution. Born in Connecticut in 1741, he has been a successful apothecary and merchant in New Haven. But when he heard about the Boston Massacre, Arnold immediately knew which side he was on. And after the fighting broke out at Lexington and Concord, he didn't hesitate,

assembling a company of volunteers and persuading revolutionary leaders to authorize a surprise attack on Taekondoroga, a British fort in northern New York. And there, Arnold helped lead the assault that resulted in the first defensive victory for American forces in the war. But that triumph was soon overshadowed by a personal tragedy. On his way home from Taekondaroga, Arnold found out that his wife Margaret had died. Her unexpected death left Arnold devastated. But he couldn't bear to wallow in his grief, so only a few weeks later, he left his three young sons in the care of his sister in New Haven and returned to the army.

There he dedicated himself to the revolutionary cause with greater fervor than ever before, and later that year he was chosen to lead a bold attack on Quebec City. To launch this surprise assault, Arnold led his men through hundreds of miles of hostile terrain. But early in the attack, he was shot in the lower leg and had to withdraw. His men pressed on, fighting in blizzard conditions, but without Arnold's leadership, the expedition ended with a crushing defeat. Arnold was desperately disappointed, but he soon made up for the setback. After recovering from his leg injury, Arnold took command of an American fleet on Lake Champlain

and helped block a British invasion of the northern colonies. And for this victory and his bold and decisive action before, Benedict Arnold was to many Americans a hero of the revolution. But Congress didn't seem to see it that way. To Arnold's fury, five other brigadier generals were promoted ahead of him. He was eventually given the rank of Major General as well, but those other officers remained senior to Arnold. This was an insult he couldn't accept,

and in July 1777, Arnold submitted his resignation. Commander-in-chief George Washington refused it, though, and instead personally urged Arnold to remain in service. Reluctantly Arnold agreed, and soon after this, he was ordered north to join Horatio Gates Army fighting in the Hudson River Valley. He hoped that this new campaign might offer him the chance to win the recognition he had been denied in the past, but now, though, the glory appears to be going to someone else once again. Arnold won't stand for it this time, so furiously he marches through the camp to, to General Gates' headquarters. Gates is studying documents at his desk when Arnold is shown in.

Gates barely looks up. Uh, General Arnold. Sir, I read your official report on the battle. I'm sure Congress will be pleased to hear that the army fought so well. Indeed. So well, in fact, sir, that you thought it fit to praise every officer under your command. Because to distinguish between them would be an injustice, you said. Gates glances up.

Yes, I did. I would suggest, sir, in doing so, you have committed another injustice. against my men. You make no mention of the brigades that went forward, the soldiers whose blood was spilled. We are an army, general. Our victories and defeats are shared. But in these circumstances, sir, general praise risks becoming an individual insult. Your men fought under my command, as did you. And had we followed your inclination, we would never have fought at all. Tell me, General Arnold, this concern for the ordinary soldier? Where was it when you tendered your resignation only a few months ago? You would have abandoned them.

Sir, do not question my loyalty to my men. General Arnold, you did not come here because your men were omitted from my report. It came because you were. My name is absent because you cannot acknowledge who truly directed the battle. General, believe me, you do not wish for Congress to see a full account of your actions. If my conduct displeases you so much, sir, then grant me leave. You may fight your own battles from now. Very well. Very well. I shall have your past prepared, and you can have your leave, sir. sir. Gates reaches for a document on his desk. You may go. Benedict Arnold storms back to his quarters stunned. His request to leave camp had been a bluff. He was sure that General Gates could not afford to lose his most aggressive field commander, but Gates has called that bluff without hesitation. And just three days after the triumph of Freeman's farm, Arnold no longer even has a command. So he prepares to leave the army. But his fellow officers are horrified at the idea of losing him. They all know the British will come again, and they want Arnold at their side when the battle comes.

This overwhelming support convinces Arnold to back down. He withdraws his application for leave and promises to stay with the army. But General Gates refuses to restore Arnold's old command. Humiliatingly, Arnold must remain in camp with nothing to do. But then, as feared, the British come again. On October 7th, 18 days after Freeman's farm, word arrives of another British advance. inside their headquarters on Bemis Heights. Gates and his generals debate whether to take the initiative and attack

or wait behind their fortifications. Though he has been stripped of his command, Arnold joins the argument, insisting that they strike first before the British can choose their ground. But once again, Gates rejects the idea. But as the discussions continue, the men hear the sound of musket fire, coming from the American pickets near the river.

Arnold pleads for permission to ride out and see what's happening and reluctantly Gates allows it. Mounting his horse, Arnold tears toward the front line, and there, at an isolated farmhouse, he spots a large force of redcoats massing for attack. He rushes back to report what he's seen, and now General Gates does send men forward. But he doesn't allow Arnold to join them.

Instead, Arnold is ordered to return to quarters. If there is going to be a battle today, it will take place without him. In his rooms, all Arnold can do is pace the floor and drink, until he can't stand it anymore. He borrows a horse and rides down the hill into the thick of battle. Men along the American line recognize Arnold and cheer as he sweeps past. And through the smoke, he spots a British officer on a gray horse riding among the enemy troops trying to hold them together.

A rifle cracks and that officer folds over in his saddle. Seeing that, Arnold urges the Americans forward. The British line begins to collapse, their troops suddenly retreating in disarray. But Arnold isn't done. He wants to seize the decisive victory he was denied at Freeman's Farm. So as the sun begins to set, the British fall back toward two log fortifications that protect the western edge of their camp, and Arnold follows. He throws his men into an assault on its log walls, but the British defenses are too strong. There's no way through, and American casualties begin to mount. Then Arnold hears heavy firing from the second, smaller fortification. Peering through the chaos of the

battlefield, he sees American troops closing in on it and realizes that its rear is exposed. To reach it, Arnold must gallop across the open ground between two lines of musket fire. It's a suicidal dash, but he charges anyway. And reaching the far side, he gathers a small group of riflemen and drives toward the enemy's line. This time, he makes a breakthrough. Bursting through a gap in the defenses, Arnold and his men are able to attack the second fortification from behind, and now the enemy is caught between the Americans and their own defensive wall. The fighting is brutal and Arnold doesn't let up, because if this fortification falls, the path will be open to the British camp beyond.

Smoke stings Arnold's eyes. His hair is matted with sweat and blood, but he doesn't care. Victory is at hand. And suddenly there's a flash of pain, and his horse shrieks as a bullet rips through Arnold's leg and into its side. The animal collapses and Arnold falls with it. The horse crashes to the ground, trapping him beneath its weight. Arnold screams out in agony.

Soldiers dash over to try to drag the dead horse off of him. One asks where he's been hit and grimacing his face white with shock. Arnold says it's the same leg he wounded at Quebec. He's in so much pain that he wishes the musketball had passed through his heart instead. But if he is somehow going to live, he just hopes that his sacrifice in this battle will be acknowledged and that everyone will finally recognize Benedict Arnold as a true American hero. I'm Raza Jaffrey, and in the new season of The Spy Who, we open the file on David Tyson,

the spy who rode with warlords. After 9-11, he joins Team Alpha, the CIA squad that will be the first Americans sent into Afghanistan. Its mission is to coordinate the fractious anti-Taliban forces, ahead of the US-led invasion, and secure the first victories in the war. But when he's caught in an al-Qaeda uprising, he finds himself alone and running for his life. Follow the Spy Who now, wherever you listen to podcasts.

You can also listen to the full season of The Spy Who rode with the Warlords, early and ad free on the order. There are books that change how you see the world, and there are books that change how you see yourself. In a new podcast series, a great book with Barack Obama, President Obama sits down with a series of surprising and sharp guests to explore six books that have shaped his life and perspective on the world. From Song of Solomon and The Fire Next Time,

to all the pretty horses and gillies. The president is joined by guests like Tom Hanks and Tanahasi Coates to reflect on how these timeless stories shaped his thinking on everything from fatherhood to leadership and discover together what they tell us about the world we live in and the world we want to create. Audible subscribers can listen to all episodes of a great book with Barack Obama ad-free right now. Plus access each audiobook discussed in the series. Download the Audible app today. Benedict Arnold's contributions to the Second Battle of Saratoga can't be underestimated, and they help the Americans win in a turning point in the revolution. Ten days later, the British Army and the Hudson River Valley surrenders,

and their campaign against Albany is over. But the significance of this victory goes far beyond the immediate situation on the ground. On the other side of the Atlantic, the French have been watching this conflict carefully. The British are their old enemies, and they've welcomed the uprising in the American, colonies, but they've held off giving direct support to the American rebels. They've wanted proof that the Americans are actually capable of winning before getting involved. Saratoga provides that proof. Soon after this victory, France enters the war, supplying the Americans with a much-needed influx of money, troops, and ships. But while the Patriots celebrate, Benedict Arnold lies in a hospital

bed. His leg is so badly damaged that doctors urge amputation. He may never walk again. and any infection in his wounds could kill him. But Arnold refuses the operation, saying he'd rather die than live the rest of his life as an amputee. His mood is made worse by the reports he reads on the recent battle. Despite Arnold's bravery, General Horatio Gates has once again minimized his role, so while Congress showers Gates with honors, Arnold's again feels forgotten. And as he endures a slow and painful recovery,

Arnold stews in his anger, lashing out at the same. the doctors and nurses and raging about his grievances to anyone who will listen. Eventually, after several surgeries and months in the hospital, Arnold is discharged. Miraculously, he can just about walk, but he's unfit for an immediate return to combat, so instead, Commander-in-Chief George Washington has another post in mind for him. Following the French entry into the war, the British have decided to abandon their position in Philadelphia. They swept into that city in September 1777, but almost nine months on, they've calculated that it's too difficult to defend, and they're evacuating their troops to New York.

General Washington now needs a trusted officer to oversee the return of the colony's largest city to American control, and he believes Benedict Arnold is that man. So on May 28, 1778, General Washington formally appoints Arnold as military governor of Philadelphia. Arnold sees this new position as a chance to rebuild his life, but he soon realizes that the job he's been handed will be extraordinarily difficult. Philadelphia is in ruins. The British burned warehouses, ships, and stores before their departure, and they've left the public buildings a shell of what they once were. But it's the residents who will be the real test. Although the British troops have retreated, many loyalists remain in the city,

and with patriots flooding back to reclaim their homes and property, there are sure to be tensions between these two communities. It will be up to Benedict Arnold to keep the people. Despite these challenges, though, Arnold embraces his new post. After years of fighting for the revolution, he believes he's earned a more comfortable life. So he takes up residence in Penn Mansion, one of the largest and grandest homes in the city. Soon he's seen riding through Philadelphia in fine carriages, and he becomes a regular fixture at the city's balls, dinners, and gala's. So to the outside world, Arnold appears to be a wealthy war hero. Reality is very different. He financed many of his many of his men.

military expeditions himself. Congress has never fully reimbursed him, and his salary remains tied up in bureaucratic disputes. He's essentially penniless. Still, it's not difficult for a man of his standing to secure credit. Arnold continues living the high life, and it's through Philadelphia's social scene that he encounters the woman who will change the course of his life. During a gala celebrating the second anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, Arnold meets a young woman named Peggy Shippin. After losing his first wife three years ago, Arnold is eager for companionship again, and when he's introduced to the 18-year-old Peggy, it's love at first sight. With her blonde hair and gray eyes, Peggy is considered one of the most desirable young women in the city. She is

also one of the wealthiest. And normally that would make her only a more attractive prospect, but the Shippins are known to have strong loyalist sympathies, and that has deterred some suitors for Peggy's hand, not Benedict Arnold. He's determined to make Peggy his bride. So that summer, Arnold visits the Shippen home to ask her father's permission to marry her. He favors his good leg as a servant guides him through their mansion to a comfortable drawing room. Peggy's father, Edward Shippen, receives Arnold with cold formality. Arnold squares his shoulders and states his purpose, reminding Shippen of his rank as military governor. He's the victor of Saratoga and one of General Washington's finest

fighting generals. Surely no man in America would make him more fitting son-in-law. But Shippin's expression remains stiff. He's a lawyer and begins questioning Arnold as though he's examining a witness. He says he's heard unsettling reports about Arnold's temper, and then there's a question of his health. As a result of his injury in battle, Arnold's left leg is now longer than his right, and there's no disguising that. He walks with a limp, but Arnold stands as straight as he can and insists he's growing stronger every day. Shippen is not convinced. It's not just Arnold's wounds.

He points out that Arnold already has three young children from his first marriage, as well as his sister Hannah to support, and if Arnold and Peggy have children of their own, there will be even more mouths to feed. For a moment, Arnold feels his face warming. He knows his finances are stretched, but he refuses to let it show. He insists his affairs are sound and that he can take care of Peggy.

Still the meeting ends without Shippen's blessing, and Arnold limps away into the gathering dusk. He leaves the ship-in home disappointed, but not deterred. He will just have to show them that he is worthy of Peggy's hand. Before the war, Arnold was a merchant, and now determined to improve his finances, Arnold returns to business. But the lines between his private interests and public responsibilities soon blur. He takes advantage of his position to buy goods at bargain prices and sell them for considerable profit. In one instance, he agrees to help a merchant whose shipment is threatened by the British, sending government wagons to retrieve the goods, but as payment, it keeps much of the rescued

stock for himself. Others begin to notice that Arnold is exploiting his office for personal gain. Pennsylvania politician Joseph Reed becomes especially determined to expose him. Reed is the president of the state's executive council. He's also a radical revolutionary who is eager to pursue anyone with a hint of sympathy for the British crown, and he's heard that Arnold isn't just willing to socialize with loyalists. He wants to marry one as well. So Reed begins building a case against Arnold, publicly accusing him of profiteering and bringing eight formal charges against him. These are serious accusations

and could send Arnold to prison. But Arnold doesn't believe he's done anything wrong. He's far from the only officer in the Continental Army who has tried to profit a little from his position, and given everything he's sacrificed for the revolution, Arnold feels he's earned it. So he demands a court-martial, a formal military trial to clear his name. But the proceedings are repeatedly delayed. Months pass with no resolution. Arnold's health worsens, his left leg in constant pain, and the endless bickering of local politicians in Philadelphia wears him down.

He wants to quit his job as military governor, but fears that if he does, he'll be seen as fleeing the charges against him, so he feels stuck. But then in the spring of 1779, he finally gets a piece of good. Good news. Ahead of his court-martial, a congressional committee has conducted a preliminary review of the case and largely cited with Arnold. While he still needs the court-martial to fully clear his name, Arnold feels free to leave his role as military governor. Now Arnold can turn his attention to more personal matters. To impress Peggy Shippen's father, Arnold quietly takes out a loan and purchases Mount Pleasant.

It's a mansion with 96 acres overlooking the banks of the Schuylkill River. It's a grand gesture, an ostentatious display of apparent wealth, and it works. Edward Shippen finally grants Arnold his daughter's hand, and on April 8, 1779, Benedict Arnold and Peggy Shippen are married. But Arnold's financial slide of hand doesn't last long. The purchase of Mount Pleasant has pushed his finances to the breaking point, and soon he has to rent out the estate just to cover his mortgage payments. He and Peggy are forced to move into a modest house owned by Peggy's father.

If that's not embarrassment enough, Arnold then finds out that Joseph Reed has once again secured a postponement of the court-martial. Reed claims he has identified new evidence against Arnold and needs more time to gather it. This leaves Arnold furious. No matter what he does, his financial problems and the relentless Joseph Reed continue to dog him. So in desperation, Arnold writes to the one man he thinks can save him, George Washington. In his letter, Arnold complains of his mistreatment and pleads, If Your Excellency thinks me a criminal, for heaven's sake, let me be immediately tried and if found guilty, executed.

A few days later, Washington replies, informing Arnold that the date of his trial has been fixed for June 1st. But he doesn't address Arnold's other complaints. At the Arnold's home in Philadelphia, thought of waiting another month for the court-martial seems unbearable. Arnold limps around the bedroom with his cane. Oh, it's intolerable. Intolerable. His wife Peggy watches him from a chaise-long. Benedict. Reed dares to call me a criminal. Me. After Quebec and Saratoga, after this. Arnold jabs his cane toward his wounded leg. Peggy pats the seat next to her. did come sit. And what is Washington done to defend my honor? Nothing. Come, come, my love. Arnold stops across the room and sits down heavily beside Peggy. She takes his hand.

Joseph Reed is a jealous fool. He only blackens your name to burnish his own. Yes, yes, precisely. That is it. He cannot bear the thought of me above him because he sees you as a threat. So he seeks to drag you down. Believe me, Philadelphia was a much kinder place without him and his committees. Do you miss those times? I didn't have to. you then. Peggy leans her head against his shoulder, but perhaps we shall all see those days again the way the revolution's going. And what do you mean? Oh, I know little of war, but if they treat other good men as they have you, how could it possibly be sustained? Well, there is the alliance with the French, with King Louis, who's a far greater tyrant than the King of England. Yes, but war makes for strange

bedfellows. I don't understand it. The British officers I met that winter did not seem like monsters. To think that you and they are meant to be enemies, they would understand a soldier like you far better than Joseph Reed does. I just wish the bait were in my own hands. On the battlefield, I can see the danger and march toward it. Now all I can do is sit here, wait for this blasted court marshal. Well, was it worth it? Everything you gave up for them? Arnold says nothing, and Peggy shakes her head. If only reasonable men on both sides could come together and end this madness. I fear there are a few reasonable men left in America.

Even Washington forgets his friends. But you, you're a reasonable man, aren't you? What are you suggesting? The British are my enemy, Peggy. But why? Because Congress say they must be? I've heard you speak of Congress. Arnold's mind races as an entirely new possibility opens up before him.

You believe they would listen to me, the British? They would recognize your worth. Arnold studies Peggy for a moment. And these officers you knew they were still here in America? I believe so. How would I contact them? Benedict Arnold almost gave up his life for the revolution. But now his honor is questioned, his debts mount,

and even George Washington seemed to have abandoned him. As far as Arnold is concerned, America has betrayed a hero of the revolution, and that leaves just one place for him to go. You stepped out for your morning jog. Except it's not your usual morning jog. You started listening to an epic sci-fi book on Audible. 30 chapters later, you've accidentally run a half marathon.

You lost track of how far you've run, somewhere just past the city limits. You can't stop. You have to find out what happens next. Then it's over. The universe seems bigger. You feel different. You feel like you have no idea where you are. Audible.

Stories that speak to you. Imagine you're reading Pride and Prejudice, except you're not reading it. Harris Dickinson and Marissa Abella are reading it to you on Audible. Her barbs sting you. His coldness sends a shiver up your spine. Your heart aches. Your ears burn.

You yearn for Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy to profess their undying love for one another. You can't bear it any longer. Well, maybe a chapter longer. Performance is so good, you'll give love a second chance. Audible. Stories that speak to you. In hopes of steering her husband to the British, Peggy Arnold knows exactly a man her husband Benedict should contact.

John Andre is a 29-year-old British officer stationed in New York City, born to French-Swiss parents. He's handsome, urbane, and fluent in four languages. During the British occupation of Philadelphia, there was talk of a romantic connection between Peggy and Andre. Nothing came of the rumored match, but Peggy still remembers Andre fondly, and she's convinced that he can be trusted.

What's secretly corresponding with a British officer won't be easy. Still, Peggy knows of several young women in Philadelphia who have remained in contact with the men they met during the occupation. There's a small network of merchants and couriers passing love letters back and forth across the line, and Peggy hopes that one member of this network might be able to help. Joseph Stansbury was born in London, and while he's sworn an oath of allegiance to the Patriots, Peggy is sure he is secretly a loyalist, that he can be trusted with a far more important message than the usual love letters. As a prominent China dealer, Stansbury often travels outside Philadelphia.

He should be able to reach New York without attracting suspicion, so all Peggy and Benedict Arnold need to do is bring him into their confidence. So they send for him, and with little delay, Stansbury arrives at the Arnold's home. A servant shows him into Benedict's office. Stansbury strides across the room. General Arnold, you wish to see me. Thank you for coming, Mr. Stansbury. Please have a seat.

Are you looking to acquire more China? A shipment is due to arrive in the city any day now. I would happily reserve some of the finer pieces for you. Actually, it was another matter I wish to discuss with you. I see. Well, how may I be of assistance? Well, Mr. Stansbury, I'm curious. How does your business fare?

I understand your trade has suffered since the British left. Trade has suffered throughout the city, but some merchants more than others, right? Especially those whose allegiance has been questioned? I have taken the oath, General. Arnold is silent and Stansbury frowns. Why did you ask me here, sir? Well, my wife speaks highly of you. Mrs. Arnold is most gracious.

She tells me you are a man of discretion and loyalty. Loyalty can be a dangerous word in Philadelphia, sir. Yes, but I'm told you can travel to New York. My business occasionally carries goods through New Jersey, and there's an officer in Manhattan who once held an acquaintance in this city. Many British officers had acquaintances here. This one served as General Clinton's aide-de-camp, Major John Andre. At Andre's name, Stansbury's guarded expression slips for an instant, but he quickly recovers.

And what business would an American general have with him? Well, I wish to know whether the British command would receive correspondence from an American officer of rank. Concerning? Services. That may prove valuable to them? Stanbury stares at arm. And what would this officer expect in return? Terms commensurate with the value of his services. When Joseph Stansbury leaves Benedict Arnold's office, Arnold feels a tightness in his chest.

He used to despise loyalists, and now he's teeming up with one. But Arnold pushes the hesitation aside. If he's going to pull this off, he cannot waver. And for his part, Stansbury is thrilled with his secret mission. Within days of his meeting with Arnold, he travels to New York City, the British military and political headquarters in America. As a merchant, he's permitted to cross the lines with little scrutiny, and he finds New York crowded with British officers,

German auxiliary troops and loyalist refugees. Stansbury immediately makes his way to British headquarters at one Broadway, and there he requests a private meeting with Major John Andre under the pretense of discussing a commercial manner. Andre has recently been appointed to oversee British intelligence operations in America, And although he's an accomplished officer, espionage is new to him. He's still building a network of informants when Stansbury arrives with the unexpected news about General Benedict Arnold. For Andre, it is an extraordinary opportunity.

He tells Stansbury that General Arnold's services would be generously rewarded if they prove valuable. The British want intelligence on American troop movements, supply depots, and fortifications. They also want information about the thousands of British troops captured at Saratoga. The Americans had promised them passage back to Europe on the condition that they never returned, but then Congress reneged on that agreement and kept the soldiers in captivity. The British viewed this as an outrage and are determined to free their men. Continuing his covert mission, Stansbury commits Andre's request to memory and then heads back to Philadelphia. He travels by a circuitous route, traveling through New Jersey by sloop and ferry,

and then horseback along quiet country roads. Over the months that follow, this route became a circuitous route. becomes a familiar one for Stansbury, as Benedict Arnold and John Andre begin their correspondence. The two men write and cipher. Each has a copy of the same book, and in their code, three numbers to identify the page, line, and position of every word. Other messages are written in invisible ink between the lines of otherwise ordinary-looking letters and can only be revealed with heat or acid. And even with these safeguards, both men proceed carefully. Arnold provides only limited intelligence at while Andre withholds any firm promises of compensation.

Each is testing the other, trying to determine whether this partnership is genuine. Meanwhile, Arnold's personal life in Philadelphia grows only more complicated. Peggy becomes pregnant with their first child. Arnold's debts continue to grow, and his court-martial, which is scheduled for June 1st, is delayed once again. Arnold's future is uncertain.

Inwardly, he is still not fully committed himself to treason. It largely depends on the out-reason. It largely depends on the outcome of his court-martial, and acquittal could restore his honor, and perhaps his loyalty to the revolution as well. But it's not until December 1779 that the trial finally begins, and the proceedings in Morristown, New Jersey move slowly. Arnold is only summoned to begin his defense on January 21st. It's a bitterly cold morning at Dickerson's Tavern,

the inn which has been transformed into a courtroom for Arnold's trial. And when it's Arnold's turn to speak, he clears his throat and stands. With the eyes of a dozen of fellow army officers on him, he refuses to make any apology for his actions. Instead, he first recounts his sacrifices for the revolution at Quebec and Saratoga. Then he rejects the accusations against him one by one, insisting that they are politically motivated,

orchestrated by the president of Pennsylvania's Executive Council, Joseph Reed. Five days after this testimony, the officers reconvene at the tavern to announce their decision. Arnold stands silently as the verdict is read. He is acquitted of the most serious accusations, but the court finds him guilty of two lesser charges, using government wagons for personal business and granting a permit without proper authority.

The punishment is a formal reprimand from the commander-in-chief of the Continental Army, George Washington. Though he retains his freedom, this verdict is a humiliation. Arnold has endured the embarrassment of the charges, the rumors spread by his enemies, and months of waiting. Now the army has delivered one final insult. He leaves the tavern furious. And as Arnold rides away from Morristown, the last remnants of his faith in the American Revolution

dissolve, he doesn't just want to help the British now. He wants to see the American rebellion crushed, and in his eyes, a decisive British victory would do more than just end the bloodshed. It would vindicate him and expose how foolish the men were who cast him aside. But if he's to ensure, a British triumph. Arnold knows he will have to deliver more than just information. You'll need to give them something so valuable, so strategically important that it will break the back of the revolution in a single stroke, and he already has an idea. There's a fort that George Washington calls the key of America. If it falls, it will split the rebellion in two and end the war. So as Benedict Arnold rides home, he's made his decision. He's going to give the British West Point.

From Audible Originals and Airship, this is episode one of Benedict Arnold for American Scandal. In our next episode, Arnold maneuvers himself into a position as commander of West Point and begins dismantling America's defenses from within. If you'd like to learn more about Benedict Arnold, we recommend the book Valiant Ambition by Nathaniel Filbray and the tragedy of Benedict Arnold by Joyce Lee Malcolm. This episode contains reenactments and dramatized details, and while in most cases we're going to be a lot of, we're going to be a good one. we can't know exactly what was said. All our dramatizations are based on historical research. American Scandal is hosted, edited, and executive produced by me, Lindsay Graham for Airship. This episode is written and researched by Olivia Thomas, senior producer Andy Beckerman,

managing producer Emily Burr, fact-checking by Alyssa Jung Perry, audio editing by Mohamed Shazi, music by Thrum, sound design by Gabriel Gould. Executive producer for Airship is William Simpson. Executive producer for Audible is Jenny Lauer Beckman, Head of Creative Development and Audible Kate Navin, Head of Audible Originals, North America, Marshall Louis,

Chief Content Officer Rachel Giazza. Copyright 2026 by Audible Originals LLC. Sound recording copyright 2026 by Audible Originals LLC. American Scandal is only possible because of listeners like you, so thank you. And don't miss an episode. Be sure to follow American Scandal on Audible

or wherever you get your podcasts. And Audible subscribers can binge new seasons of American scandal early and ad-free right now. Join Audible in the Audible app or by subscribing on Apple Podcasts. And to find out more about me, including my other podcasts, my live show, the history tours I'm arranging, and all sorts of other things, go to history ishuman.com. That's history ishuman.com.