Benedict Arnold is remembered in American history as one of the most notorious traitors. A general during the American Revolutionary War, Arnold initially fought on the side of the colonies, but later defected to the British. Although he was successful in several military engagements as a British officer, he was defeated in the Battle of Saratoga in 1777 and was forced to flee to England. Arnold's defection and betrayal severely damaged his reputation, and he became a symbol of disloyalty and treachery in the United States. His name has become synonymous with the act of betrayal, and to this day, he is reviled as one of the most reprehensible figures in American history.