2-329-788 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Benedict Arnold viewing the destruction of New London, 1781 (c1880). Arnold (1741-1801) fought for the American Continental Army from the outbreak of the War of Independence in 1775. He became one of its most effective generals, distinguishing himself at the Battle of Saratoga. He switched over to the side of the British in 1780 after becoming disillusioned at being passed over for promotion and at the alliance of the Americans with the French. In September 1781 forces under his command attacked and burned the port of New London, Connecticut. A print from Cassell's History of the United States, by Edmund Ollier, Volume II, Cassell Petter and Galpin, London, c1880.