Book Review
George Washington and Benedict Arnold By DAVE R. PALMER
Reviewed by PEGGY BARNETT
Dave Palmer is a former Su perintendent of West Point, a post that certainly would indicate expertise in the subject of this book. He is a military historian specializing in the campaigns of George Washington and the eighteenth century American Army. He has published several books about our early history as well as one on the United States in Vietnam.

These qualifications do not prevent an occasional cliche' ("a force to be reckoned with,") but the story is so dramatic that a stylistic slip here and there does not detract from the action and intrigue.

The name "Benedict Arnold" rings in American ears with the note of "traitor," while George Washington's means "hero." Palmer draws the contrast tellingly in this book. Perhaps the reader does not need further evidence of Washington's ability and character, but the details of how he led the newly-formed country to victory always enthrall us. He admired and depended on his daring colleague, General Arnold, and could hardly believe it when he learned of his treachery.

Arnold was deserving of his admiration during the early years of the conflict. They met first at the Continental Congress in 1774. Arnold was not tall, but he was handsome and had a commanding presence. Confident, courageous, and articulate, he soon proved himself as a leader of men. Unfortunately, he was also very proud and quick to take offense when he felt a lack of appreciation. The Congress in Philadelphia did not appreciate his sacrifices for the cause, though his men were loyal.

As a colonel early in the war, he led his New England soldiers in an assault on British-held Fort Ticonderoga. In spite of this success, he had difficulty with the Massachusetts leaders and lost the command in the North. Meanwhile, Washington was trying to mold an army from colonial troops who saw themselves as serving the colony rather than a nation. He was also struggling with a balky Continental Congress and reluctant generals. Arnold's audacity was very attractive in contrast.

With no British troops in the thirteen colonies in the summer of 1776 (thanks to Washington and Arnold,) the moment seemed ripe for persuading Canada to join the rebellion. Arnold led an unbelievable invasion, fighting the weather all the way. Ultimately, the effort did not succeed, but Arnold fought bravely, and became a general while almost losing his life.

When one reads about the way he was treated, one can almost understand his disappointment and betrayal. Although he won once again at Saratoga, he was not accorded the money or acclaim that he deserved. In pain from his wounds, he became embittered. Even though the reader knows the outcome, there is suspense in reading about the plot to turn West Point over to the British. Palmer tells a very exciting story.

From the distance of years, it remains amazing that men like Washington were able to overcome the actions of small-minded men and lead the green troops to victory against an enemy superior in number and resources. Arnold was part of the accomplishment, but then circumstances and flaws in his character changed his role.

"West Point was slated to become the most important strategic site in the United States, one that would be called the 'Gibraltar of America.' It was also fated to be the rock on which Benedict Arnold would eventually crash."

Read about that crash and our early history in George Washington and Benedict Arnold, available at the Mary Willis Library.

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