Ep 7. Mrs. Benedict Arnold

After six captivating episodes of uncovering America's hidden stories, the seventh episode of the show is titled "Mrs. Benedict Arnold," which is based on the life of Peggy Shippen, the woman who was once considered to be the most dangerous femme fatale in American history. The episode explores the life of this mysterious woman whose actions impacted the American Revolution.

In the episode, the audience is taken on a journey to explore Peggy's life, starting with her childhood in Philadelphia. Peggy was born in a wealthy family and had a lavish upbringing. She was known for her beauty and charm and was often the center of attention. However, after she turned 18, her life took a turn when she met a British officer named John Andre. John was charming and charismatic, and Peggy fell in love with him.

Through interviews with historians and experts, the episode explores the relationship between Peggy and John. It delves into their meetings and secret letters, which were written in code. They were plotting to betray America by selling military secrets to the British. Peggy used her charm and wit to manipulate her husband, General Benedict Arnold, into joining the conspiracy. With his access to highly sensitive military information, Arnold became the perfect target for the British.

The audience gets to see how Peggy's scheming worked on Arnold. The show explores how Peggy used her influence and connections to deceive her husband and other American leaders. The audience experiences the twists and turns of the plot, as Peggy and John work together to turn Arnold into a traitor. As the story unfolds, viewers see the fallout of the betrayal, including the arrest and execution of John Andre.

The episode also examines Peggy after the war and the rest of her life. Peggy's character and reputation were forever tainted by her involvement in the conspiracy. She spent the rest of her life trying to repair her image and regain the respect of society. However, her name will always be linked to one of the most significant betrayals of the American Revolution.

The episode "Mrs. Benedict Arnold" of America's Hidden Stories is a gripping account of the life of Peggy Shippen. It highlights her skills at manipulation, cunning, and deception, which almost resulted in the downfall of the American Revolution. With expert interviews, vivid storytelling, and archival footage, the episode takes the audience on a journey into the life of a complex and intriguing woman who remains be part of America's secret history.