Benedict Arnold and Horatio Gates argued. So what?

Benedict Arnold (source)

Over two centuries ago, two generals in the Continental army had an argument over how to best counter a British offensive in the American Revolutionary War. So what?

On September 19, 1777, British troops under General John Burgoyne attacked the continental army at the Battle of Saratoga. A heated debate broke out between the Continental commanding general Horatio Gates and his second-in-command Brigadier General Benedict Arnold. Arnold argued that the Continental Army should launch an immediate counter-assault to halt the British advance, while Gates wanted to wait until the regulars had gotten closer. Eventually, Arnold prevailed upon his superior and the revolutionaries launched a counter-attack. However, the delay in attacking cost the Americans a valuable opportunity, and, while they inflicted heavy casualties, they were forced to retreat. Because of his alleged insubordination, Arnold was removed from his position as second-in-command to Gates. This would become a motivating factor in Benedict Arnold's decision to betray his comrades and defect to the British army, taking with him the plans to the Continental fort at West Point.

Neither man quickly forgave the other over the altercation at Saratoga, and both men would pay a steep price for it. Though there were other factors contributing to Arnold's decision to defect, his perceived slight at the hands of the revolutionary army definitely played a role. Despite his weaknesses, General Arnold was a competent military officer. His defection and the information that he surrendered to the British was a blow to the Continental Army, including General Gates. However, the price that Gates paid for his retaliation against Arnold was minimal compared to the price that Arnold would pay for his defection.

While initially, Benedict Arnold was paid well by the Crown for the information about West Point and was hailed by the British public, it didn't take long for him to fall out of popularity. Because of his rash decision to abandon the fledgling nation that he had sworn an oath to serve, this man who so much desired wealth and popularity died poor and despised. Over time, his name became synonymous with treason in the country that he had betrayed. What began as an argument over military tactics put him on the path to ruin. While Arnold's treachery was not enough to flounder the American Revolutionary effort, it was enough for him to be remembered in ignominy for generations.

So what? That's what.