What is the symbolism of swords as noted in the biography, The Notorious Benedict Arnold?

Swords are symbols of fighting, self-protection, and honor during this time. When the British surrender the fort at St. John's to the Americans, the British officers place their swords at the feet of the American officers as a symbol of that surrender. The Americans allow the British to keep their swords as a symbol of the Americans' agreement that the British were brave. Additionally, it indicated that men needed a way to protect themselves from natural dangers during this time.