John Andre was a British Army officer and spy during the American Revolutionary War. Born in 1750 in London, he became known for his intelligence work and was involved in several military operations. His most notable role was as the adjutant general to General Henry Clinton, the British commander in New York. Andre is often remembered for his connection to Benedict Arnold, an American general who defected to the British side. In 1780, Andre was captured by American forces while carrying documents that revealed Arnold's plans to surrender the fort at West Point. He was tried and executed by hanging, becoming a symbol of espionage and betrayal.