15 People Who Changed America—For All the Wrong Reasons

1. Benedict Arnold

Arnold’s name has become synonymous with treason in American culture. As one of George Washington’s most talented generals during the Revolutionary War, his defection to the British in 1780 was a blow to the emerging nation. His attempted surrender of West Point would have dealt a devastating blow to the American cause.

Despite his earlier heroic service, including crucial victories at Fort Ticonderoga and Saratoga, Arnold’s legacy was forever tarnished by his betrayal. Driven by debt, resentment over being passed over for promotion, and influence from his loyalist wife Peggy Shippen, he chose to switch sides – a decision that would make him America’s most notorious traitor.