This is how a lengthy article on Arnold (in American History Magazine) wraps up:
"Arnold ultimately defected due to perceived grievances he had suffered at the hands of Congress and the military, his mounting debts, corruption charges filed against him by Pennsylvania civil authorities that resulted in Arnold demanding an investigation to clear his name, and his indignation at the French alliance.
Only in recent years have historians fully acknowledged Arnold's contributions to the American cause. The virtual burial of his outstanding military reputation began as soon as news of his treason came to light. Brigadier General "Mad Anthony" Wayne, for one, suddenly attributed Arnold's bravery to heavy drinking, "even to intoxication." In the years since, the name Benedict Arnold has become virtually synonymous with "traitor."
Ironically, it was Arnold--the American general and the hero of Saratoga--who sealed the French alliance that helped guarantee independence for the country he had betrayed."
http://americanhistory.about.com/library/prm/blbenedictarnold4.htmThe story seems marginally relevant someehow. Turns out you can be a "hero" and still a traitor.Amazing--I was thinking the same thing immediately before I saw this posted article.
Not 15 minutes ago, I posted something similar to this point on a different thread. It was about how Terry M and the DNC plan to make a big stink over President Bush being AWOL during Vietnam. My point that serving with distinction doesn't automatically make one a good civilian political leader, or even a decent person, for that matter.
Mark