Robert E. Lee was one of the most prominent Confederate generals during the American Civil War. He was known for his military prowess and leadership, and is often considered one of the greatest generals in American history.
Lee's Background
Lee was born in 1807 in Stratford, Virginia. He came from a prominent family of Virginia landowners and was educated at West Point. He served in the U.S. Army during the Mexican-American War, where he distinguished himself as a capable and fearless leader.
The Civil War
At the outbreak of the Civil War, Lee resigned his commission in the U.S. Army and joined the Confederate Army. He was quickly appointed commander of the Army of Northern Virginia, and would soon become one of the most successful Confederate generals.
Lee's most famous victory came at the Battle of Chancellorsville in 1863, where he defeated a larger Union army under the command of General Joseph Hooker. Lee also led the Confederate army at the Battles of Gettysburg and Petersburg, which were both significant defeats for the Confederacy.
Surrender at Appomattox
In 1865, Lee's army was surrounded and defeated by the Union army at Appomattox Court House. Lee surrendered his army to General Ulysses S. Grant, effectively ending the Civil War.
Legacy
Lee is considered one of the greatest generals in American history. He was known for his military brilliance, his leadership, and his devotion to the Confederate cause. He remains a controversial figure, however, due to his role in the Civil War and his defense of slavery.
After the War
After the war, Lee became president of Washington College, which is now known as Washington and Lee University. He died in 1870 at the age of 63.