What were the last words of Benedict Arnold?
Asked by: Alexandria Conroy | Last update: May 24, 2026Score: 4.3/5 (67 votes)
Benedict Arnold's widely reported, though likely legendary, last words were: "Let me die in the old uniform in which I fought my battles for freedom. May God forgive me for ever having put on another". These words, expressing regret for his treason and desire to die as an American hero, reflect the enduring myth surrounding the infamous figure, though historians debate their authenticity and whether he truly felt remorse at the end of his life.
What were Benedict Arnold's last words?
Benedict Arnold's reported last words, said just before he died in London in 1801, were, "Let me die in the old uniform in which I fought my battles for freedom, may God forgive me for putting on another," expressing a wish to be buried in his Continental Army uniform, a stark contrast to his treasonous switch to the British side. These words reflect his complex legacy as a revolutionary hero turned traitor, hinting at regret for his betrayal, according to historical accounts.
Was Benedict Arnold handsome?
He was handsome and charismatic, with black hair, gray eyes and an aquiline nose, and he carried himself with the lissome elegance of a natural athlete. A neighbor from Connecticut remembered that Benedict Arnold was “the most accomplished and graceful skater” he had ever seen.
Who was the real hero of the Battle of Saratoga?
Historians often point to Benedict Arnold as the true battlefield hero of Saratoga for his aggressive, crucial role in turning the tide, despite being sidelined by commanding officer Horatio Gates, while also crediting rifleman Daniel Morgan for routing British flanks and engineer Tadeusz Kosciuszko for fortifications, though Arnold's later treason complicates his legacy.
What happened to Benedict Arnold in the end?
Benedict Arnold was a celebrated American Revolutionary War general who became infamous as a traitor after attempting to surrender the fort at West Point to the British in 1780; he then served the British for the remainder of the war, and after the American victory, he moved to London, where he lived as a merchant and died in 1801, forever remembered as a symbol of betrayal. His treason stemmed from perceived slights, lack of promotion, financial troubles, and resentment, ultimately leading him to betray the Continental Army for money and a British commission, though his plot was discovered, and he escaped to British lines.
What Happened To Benedict Arnold After The War? - Military History HQ
Why did Benedict betray America?
As I understand it it's not entirely certain, but I've heard things ranging from him feeling he didn't get the credit he deserved from the Continental Congress for earlier victories, his battlefield injuries clouding his judgment, overall pessimism about the prospects of the United States and the progress of the war, ...
Are there any living descendants of Benedict Arnold?
Yes, Benedict Arnold has living descendants today, primarily in Canada (Ontario, Saskatchewan) and the US (New England), who trace their lineage through his children, notably those who stayed in North America after his treason; they are scattered, with some connecting through genealogy forums and groups, and many are distantly related to other prominent historical figures like Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry and Stephen A. Douglas, through earlier Arnold lines.
Did Benedict Arnold regret?
No, there's no strong evidence Benedict Arnold ever truly regretted switching sides; he felt justified, believing he was saving America from an ineffective Congress, though he certainly regretted the outcome of being caught and the lack of recognition he felt he deserved, continuing to complain about his treatment even in exile. He remained stubborn and believed his motives were honorable, even as the British and Americans alike saw him as a traitor, and historians suggest he was driven by ego, debt, and perceived slights from Congress.
Did Daniel Morgan get 499 lashes?
Yes, Revolutionary War hero Daniel Morgan famously received 499 lashes, not 500, after striking a British officer during the French and Indian War, a punishment that was usually fatal, and he would often joke that the British miscounted and still owed him one. The story highlights his toughness and anti-British sentiment, becoming part of his legend as a frontiersman and soldier, according to the National Park Service.
What happened to Burgoyne after Saratoga?
However, General Washington pressured Congress to release Burgoyne's army and in February 1778, Burgoyne and his men were sent to England on the condition that they would not fight against the United States again. Once cleared of any wrongdoing by the British War Office, Burgoyne returned to the life of a gentleman.
What do the British think of Benedict Arnold?
Once he turned to the British, there were varying views. He was seen as a failure, due to his plot being uncovered and John Andrea hanged, Arnold needed Andrea to survive, otherwise Arnold had few friends in the British ranks.
What did the angel say to George Washington?
Once again, the angel dipped into the water and the angel said to Washington, “Son of the Republic, what you have seen is explained as follows: Three dangers will come over the Republic; the second is most to be dreaded; when this one is passed, the whole world cannot conquer her.
What was Benedict Arnold's famous quote?
Benedict Arnold's most famous attributed quote, often cited as his last words, reflects his tragic turn: "Let me die in the old uniform in which I fought my battles. May God forgive me for ever putting on another," showing regret for his defection. Another poignant statement, made before his treason, expressed his sense of being wronged: "Having become a cripple in the service of my country, I little expected to meet ungrateful returns".
What were Marie Antoinette's last words?
Marie Antoinette's famous last words, spoken just before her execution on October 16, 1793, were a polite apology to her executioner after accidentally stepping on his foot: "Pardon me, sir, I did not do it on purpose" (French: "Pardonnez-moi, monsieur. Je ne l'ai pas fait exprès"). These simple, human words contrast with the famous but false "Let them eat cake" quote, highlighting a moment of grace and dignity at her end.
What were JFK's last words?
Nellie Connally turned and commented to Kennedy, who was sitting behind her, "Mr. President, they can't make you believe now that there are not some in Dallas who love and appreciate you, can they?" Kennedy's reply – "No, they sure can't" – were his last words.
What were Ethan Allen's last words?
Ethan Allen (1738-1789)
Allen's last words were a deathbed response to an attending doctor who attempted to comfort him bysaying, "General, I fear the angels are waiting for you" to which the general replied: “Waiting are they, waiting are they? Well…let them wait!”
Is Mad Dog Morgan a true story?
Mad Dog Morgan : the true story of Australia's most infamous bushranger | Catalogue | National Library of Australia.
Who was the strongest man in the Revolutionary War?
1 of Eddie Hall and Brian Staw idols Peter Francisco is considered the strongest American in history who was feared Warrior being 6 foot 8 inches 260 lbs he was actually considered 1 of the only humans out of a few that is agrue be stronger than a Gorllia Peter Francisco (born Pedro Francisco; July 7, 1760 – January 16 ...
What was Daniel Morgan's nickname?
Morgan worked as a teamster during the French and Indian War, hauling supplies for the British. (His nickname was the “Old Wagoner.”) Tall and broad, he cut a vivid figure, even more so after he attracted the ire of a British officer and was sentenced to 500 lashes.
Why did Benedict betray the US?
Historians have several theories about why Arnold became a traitor: greed; mounting debt; resentment of other officers; a hatred of the Continental Congress; and a desire for the colonies to remain under British rule. The September 21 meeting with British Major John Andre was a disaster for both men.
How many died in the US Revolutionary War?
Estimates for Revolutionary War deaths vary, but around 25,000 Americans died (6,800 in battle, 17,000+ from disease/POW conditions) and over 24,000 British soldiers died, with disease being a major killer for both sides, alongside huge civilian losses, especially from smallpox, which killed an estimated 100,000 people in North America.
Who was the traitor in the Revolutionary War?
Benedict Arnold's name became synonymous with the word "traitor" in the United States. Significance: The only man to serve as a General on both sides of the American Revolutionary War.
Is the Lincoln bloodline still alive?
No, there are no direct descendants of Abraham Lincoln alive today, as the last known direct descendant, Robert Todd Lincoln Beckwith, died in 1985; however, many distant relatives exist through Lincoln's father's and mother's side, including celebrities like Tom Hanks and George Clooney, who share common ancestors.
Is Marilyn Monroe a Mayflower descendant?
Marilyn Monroe
Descended from: Mayflower crew member John Alden.
Was Benedict Arnold wealthy?
Within five years, Arnold had three children and his high-risk-high-reward business exploits made him the wealthiest man in New Haven. To display to the world that he had made it, Arnold built a lavish mansion on three acres along Water Street in New Haven.