12/19/2005 - Saratoga Springs, NY

Here I am, in lovely Saratoga Springs: "Health, History, Horses." I'm not really sure what "Health" is all about, and Horses, of course, the race track (a subject in which I have little interest). The History is what most intrigues me.

In September of 1777, General Burgoyne led British Troops against a typically unprofessional and disease depleted Continental Army. The one thing that the Americans had going for them was number. The Continental Army, led by Morgan, Learned and Poor (a typical PhD-pursuing Law Firm) held their ground for 3 weeks until Burgoyne realized he was isolated and decided to risk one final assault.

The Americans were then led by the unbelievable bravery of one Benedict Arnold, who not only won the day, but did so despite being injured in battle. As the referenced website put it,

"Had he died there, posterity would have known few names brighter than that of Benedict Arnold."

He did not, and the result was one of the most decisive victories for the burgeoning nation.

14,000 patriotic steps today. Cheers,