The Culper Ring was a network of spies active during the American Revolutionary War, established in 1778 by Major Benjamin Tallmadge under the direction of General George Washington. Formed during the British occupation of New York City, the ring played a crucial role in gathering intelligence for the Continental Army. The name "Culper" was suggested by Washington himself, inspired by Culpeper County, Virginia.
Undercover agents included people with ordinary jobs, like tailors and newspaper owners. Some Continental spies were double agents - meaning they pretended to work for the British.
George Washington,The Culper Spy Ring was tasked by Washington with conducting spy activities in New York City, the British headquarters during the war.
Benedict Arnold,In 1780, the Culper Ring uncovered a plot involving a high-ranking American officer—later revealed to be Benedict Arnold—who was conspiring with British Major John André to surrender the strategically vital American fort at West Point, New York, along with its garrison, to British forces.