General John Burgoyne (24 February 1722 – 4 August 1792) is a British army officer, politician and dramatist.

He first sees action during the Seven Years' War when he participates in several battles, mostly notably during the Portugal Campaign of 1762.

Burgoyne is best known for his role in the American War of Independence.

During the Saratoga campaign, he surrenders his army of 5,000 men to the American troops on October 17, 1777.

Appointed to command a force designated to capture Albany and end the rebellion, Burgoyne advances from Canada but soon finds himself surrounded and outnumbered.

He fights two battles at Saratoga, but is forced to open negotiations with Horatio Gates.

Although he agrees to a convention, on 17 October 1777, which would allow his troops to return home, this is subsequently revoked and his men are made prisoners.

Burgoyne faces criticism when he returns to Britain, and never holds another active command.

Burgoyne is also an accomplished playwright known for his works such as The Maid of the Oaks and The Heiress, but his plays never reach the fame of his military career.

He serves as a member of the House of Commons of Parliament for a number of years, sitting for the seats of Midhurst and Preston.

He is often referred to as Gentleman Johnny.