Robert E. Lee's father, Henry "Light Horse Harry" Lee, was a close friend of George Washington and served under him during the Revolutionary War. Lee grew up hearing stories about Washington's leadership and integrity, and he developed a deep admiration for the first president of the United States.
After graduating from West Point, Lee served in the U.S. Army for over 30 years. He distinguished himself in the Mexican-American War and was widely regarded as one of the most talented officers in the army. However, Lee's loyalty to his home state of Virginia led him to resign from the army when Virginia seceded from the Union.
Lee went on to serve as the commander of the Confederate Army during the Civil War. Although the Confederacy was ultimately defeated, Lee's leadership and military genius earned him the respect of both sides. After the war, Lee became president of Washington College (now Washington and Lee University) in Lexington, Virginia. He served in this role until his death in 1870.
Throughout his life, Lee remained a great admirer of George Washington. He often quoted Washington's writings and speeches, and he tried to emulate Washington's leadership style. Lee believed that Washington was the greatest leader in American history, and he sought to follow in his footsteps.
Thomas Jefferson
Thomas Jefferson was another important influence on Robert E. Lee. Lee's father was a close friend of Jefferson, and Lee grew up hearing stories about the third president of the United States. Lee admired Jefferson's intellect, his dedication to public service, and his love of Virginia.
After graduating from West Point, Lee served as an engineer on the construction of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal. This project was Jefferson's brainchild, and Lee was inspired by Jefferson's vision of a nation connected by canals and roads.
Lee also shared Jefferson's love of Virginia. He believed that Virginia was the most beautiful and prosperous state in the Union, and he was determined to defend it from Northern aggression. When Virginia seceded from the Union, Lee resigned from the U.S. Army and joined the Confederate Army.
Lee's decision to join the Confederacy was a controversial one. Many people believed that Lee was betraying his country by fighting for the Confederacy. However, Lee believed that he was doing the right thing by defending his home state. He remained loyal to the Confederacy until its defeat in 1865.
After the war, Lee became president of Washington College (now Washington and Lee University) in Lexington, Virginia. He served in this role until his death in 1870. Lee's time at Washington College was marked by his dedication to education and his efforts to promote reconciliation between the North and the South.
Stonewall Jackson
Stonewall Jackson was another major influence on Robert E. Lee. Jackson was Lee's subordinate during the Civil War, and the two men developed a close friendship. Lee was impressed by Jackson's military genius, his courage, and his devotion to duty.
Jackson was also a deeply religious man, and he had a strong influence on Lee's religious beliefs. Lee was already a devout Christian, but Jackson's example inspired him to become even more committed to his faith.
After the war, Lee wrote a biography of Jackson. In this book, Lee praised Jackson's leadership, his military skills, and his Christian character. Lee believed that Jackson was one of the greatest generals in history, and he was proud to have served alongside him.