As the Revolutionary War entered its decisive phase, John André—head of the British Army's Secret Service in North America—masterminded the defection of General Benedict Arnold, who agreed to turn over control of West Point and aid in the kidnapping of George Washington. After a rendezvous between the two men, André was captured by the Americans, and despite appeals for leniency on both sides of the Atlantic, he was convicted by military tribunal and hanged. Taking a new look at the evidence, D.A.B. Ronald offers speculation on André's motives and why he chose to sacrifice himself.