An Interview With Benedict Arnold - Hero Or Traitor Of The American Revolution?

As a merchant opposing the Stamp Act, a leader of the Sons Of Liberty, a 5th generation American, and a brilliant field commander and strategist who fought on both sides, Benedict Arnold understood the American Revolution like nobody else.

He knew that this conflict was not a black-and-white issue for most colonial Americans. While often portrayed as a war between Britain and the 13 Colonies, in reality there were a variety of attitudes among Americans toward resolving grievances with Britain. It was these differing beliefs that turned the rebellion into an intense civil war that spread throughout the colonies, dividing neighbours and families, and eventually leading to Benedict Arnold's "betrayal".

The rise of the United States of America as a nation is often seen as the forgone conclusion of the American Revolution, but most Americans of that time had little certainty about where events would take them. Benedict Arnold was just one of many who opposed the injustices of colonial government, but later became disenchanted with the direction the revolution was taking.

He was not alone. By switching sides, Benedict Arnold joined the large ranks of the Loyalists, Americans who had remained loyal to their king or had returned to being loyal. Loyalists are estimated to have been between 20-33% of the population.

By talking with Benedict Arnold, your students will broaden their perspective on the American Revolution, and gain a deeper understanding of the motivations, beliefs, and experiences of the participants.

Naturally, the interview will be based around the questions you choose to ask.
Your students may use their interview with Benedict Arnold in different ways, depending on your preferences:
-They may hold him accountable for his actions and put him on trial for treason.
-They may interview him for the purpose of gathering information to be used later in a class debate or trial over his actions.
-They may interview him for the purpose of learning more about the American Revolution from the perspective of a key player.
-The above approaches can be combined.

Benedict Arnold is prepared to discuss (but is not limited to) the following topics:
-His childhood and education
-His experiences in the French and Indian War
-His career as a merchant and sea captain
-His role as a leader of the Sons of Liberty
-His numerous victories in battle against the British
-How the American Revolution went wrong
-Switching sides
-The Peace Treaty
-His life after the war
-The U.S.A. after the war

Benedict Arnold will also have various artifacts on hand, including a British musket, a flintlock pistol, and colonial coins and paper money.