Arnold's letter was ignored, and he languished in frustration until October 7 when British General John Burgoyne authorized a massive effort to probe the American lines for a possible breakthrough point. Once the first shots sounded in the air, Arnold took to the field without authorization and began giving orders. His fearlessness under fire inspired his comrades and his enemies alike that day, and he continued to exercise leadership even after being felled by a painful and serious wound to his leg. Arnold's actions that day helped ensure a decisive American victory at a critical juncture in the War for Independence. Near sunset, Arnold was assisted off the field by Major Henry Dearborn and others, but nearly passed out from the agonizing pain. He would be heard to say that he wished the bullet had passed through his heart, instead of his leg. Profound words. For had Arnold died that day at Saratoga, he would be known today as one of the bravest and most dynamic military leaders in American history. Instead, his legacy is far different.
Arnold was born on January 14, 1741 in Norwich, Connecticut. His father was a merchant, who married into Connecticut aristocracy. The elder Arnold nevertheless struggled financially and turned to drunkenness. Benedict was apprenticed to his mother's cousins, but nevertheless managed to participate in the French and Indian War. Following the war, he went into business for himself as a trader. Arnold's business career saw its difficulties, but was more successful than his father's. He became a fairly prominent citizen in New Haven, and was increasingly drawn to rebellion against his Mother Country. "Good God," he would write after the Boston Massacre, "are the Americans all asleep and tamely giving up their liberties...?"
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