Historian's Guild discussion

I haven't read enough about Gates to have a strong opinion.

This much seems beyond dispute. Arnold served in an exemploration fashion both in the victories at Ticonderoga and defensive actions in turning back a British attack out of Canada. He received two serious wounds. Yet five junior officers were promoted over him. He resigned in a Huff. Washington persuaded him to reenlist and Arnold was assigned to serve under General Gates. They quickly despised each other. In the fighting against Burgoin, Arnold again took command of some troops, against Gates's orders, attacked a british position and drove them off the field. Some writers have given him credit for dispiriting the British and contributing to Burgoyne's surrender 10 days later at Saratoga. Arnold was a very aggressive fighter. In his reports Gates took all credit and gave little notice to Arnold.

Gates may have been the proximate cause of Arnold's desertion. This may have been a fool me twice situation for Arnold. He may have begun to perceive things as a pattern of mistreatment from Washington's side.

This appears to be a good, non-pejorative summary:

https://www.history.com/topics/americ...

It's complicated enough to deserve attention.

I too appreciate you starting the discussion. I agree Gates may serve as an explanation but not a justification.