Arthur Lee (diplomat) - Definition and Overview

Arthur Lee (1740-1792), was an American diplomat during the American Revolutionary War. His brothers, William, Richard, and Francis Lightfoot Lee were also Revolutionary-era diplomats.

He was trained as a doctor, but later decided to study law. During the war he was sent as envoy of the Continental Congress to Spain and Prussia to gain support, but was unsuccessful in his endeavours.

Later in Paris he fell out with Benjamin Franklin and Silas Deane. He persuaded Congress to recall Deane to America, but was himself recalled afterward.