Benedict Arnold was an American military officer during the American Revolutionary War who initially fought for the Continental Army. He played a crucial role in several early victories, including the Battle of Saratoga, which helped secure French support for the American cause. However, Arnold became disillusioned with the American leadership and felt undervalued. In 1780, Arnold switched sides and joined the British Army, becoming one of the most infamous traitors in American history. He plotted to surrender the strategic fort at West Point to the British, but his plan was discovered, leading to his flight to British-held territory. Arnold's actions have since become synonymous with betrayal.