Benedict Arnold was an American Revolutionary War general who originally fought for the American Continental Army but defected to the British Army later on. Initially respected as a patriotic American, he became notorious as a traitor after he shifted his allegiance to the British. Prior to the war, he was a merchant operating ships on the Atlantic Ocean. When the war broke out he volunteered for service and joined the army. He proved himself to be a brave and valiant army man and participated in the Capture of Fort Ticonderoga, the Battle of Valcour Island, and the Battle of Ridgefield. He even suffered grievous injuries during one of the battles which threatened to end his combat career. Arnold was a dedicated officer during the early years of his career and served America selflessly. However, he was passed over for promotion despite his hard work and determination while other officers claimed credit for some of his accomplishments. Eventually he grew embittered and began a communication with British spy chief Major André, and changed sides. Still ostensibly fighting for America, he hatched a scheme to surrender the fort at West Point to the British which was exposed when American forces captured André who was carrying papers that revealed the plot. He somehow evaded arrest by the American forces and went on to join the British army.