The Death Of Benedict Arnold

On the decisive day of Saratoga OTL Benedict Arnold led the charge which broke the British and resulted in Burgoyne's surrender while taking a serious wound to the leg. During his recovery he met his future wife and eventually embarked on his decision to sell his loyalties back to the British.

What happens if the wound turns out to have brushed an artery and, just as Burgoyne surrendered the artery opens, leading to his death?

Does he remain a hero in American history? Does this mean that he, rather than Gates, gets the credit for Saratoga which was arguably his? And when an army is later sent south is Gates still in command or does some more able officer lead?
 
I'm certain he's remembered fondly in America as a National Martyr who gave his life in the name of Liberty.

How this affects the rest of the war I have no idea. Not sure how much his OTL betrayal affected anything since it was in the end unsucessful.
 
Does he remain a hero in American history? Does this mean that he, rather than Gates, gets the credit for Saratoga which was arguably his? And when an army is later sent south is Gates still in command or does some more able officer lead?

1. Yes, although depending upon how Gates sells Arnold's Martyrdom then Arnold may go down as a footnote. Only interesting to us Ahers.
2. Hopefully, although Gates and his Aide-de-Camp Wilkinson were notorious self promoters so I would assume he still hogs the credit and with it the southern command.
3. Gates still goes. What are the other options? Greene or Knox really and Gates is more popular in Congress and would still be in this Arnoldless world.
 
He'd receive the credit he deserved, Washington would see to it. If not shortly after his death, then after Washington becomes President.
 
Maur, nah, people coming to their senses simply change sides, they don't go into such tedious detail as to all the rewards and payments they are to receive for their 'sudden change of heart'.;)
 
Maur, nah, people coming to their senses simply change sides, they don't go into such tedious detail as to all the rewards and payments they are to receive for their 'sudden change of heart'.;)

I think seeking vengence on those in Congress who have wronged him might have a little more to do with it than the pounds.
 
Top