Description:
(Head of the British Secret Service During the American Revolutionary War)
John André was a British Army officer who was tried and executed for his espionage by the ‘Continental Army’ at the time of the ‘American War of Independence’. After being sent to the United States, he served as chief intelligence officer in New York City under General Sir Henry Clinton, the then British commander in chief. In a plot to secure British control over the fort at West Point, New York, he undertook secret correspondence with the embittered American General Benedict Arnold. General Benedict Arnold, who was made the commandant of the fort in August 1780, was convinced by John André on September 21, 1780 to surrender the fort for £20,000. However before the plan could be carried forward André was taken into custody by three military men who recovered the papers regarding the plot from him. He was convicted by a board of officers appointed by General George Washington and was sentenced to death. He was finally hanged to death in October 1780 following General Sir Henry Clinton’s dismissal to exchange him with American General Benedict Arnold, who by that time had fled to the British territory.
Birthday
May 2, 1751 (Taurus)
City
London, England
Died on
October 2, 1780
Parents
Antoine André
Marie Louise Giradot
What was John André's role during the American Revolutionary War?
John André was a British Army officer who served as the head of the British Army's Secret Service in America during the Revolutionary War.
How was John André involved in the Benedict Arnold treason plot?
John André was involved in the Benedict Arnold treason plot by serving as the intermediary between Arnold and the British, helping to facilitate the surrender of West Point to the British.
What was the outcome of John André's involvement in the Benedict Arnold treason plot?
John André was captured by American forces, tried as a spy, and subsequently executed by hanging on October 2, 1780.
What impact did John André's capture and execution have on the American Revolutionary War?
John André's capture and execution had a significant impact on the war as it exposed Benedict Arnold's treason and led to a loss of trust between American and British forces.
How is John André remembered in history?
John André is remembered in history for his role in the Benedict Arnold treason plot and his subsequent execution, which has been a subject of debate and discussion among historians.
