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Robert E. Lee: The Civil War Day by Day, 1861-1865

Arthur C. Clarke

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From Arlington to Appomattox: Robert E. Lee’s Civil War, Day by Day, 1861-1865

by Charles R. Knight

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	7371 KB
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Print length	:	542 pages

Robert E. Lee was one of the most important figures in American history. As the commander of the Army of Northern Virginia, he led the Confederacy to victory in some of the most important battles of the Civil War. But Lee was more than just a military commander. He was also a brilliant strategist, a gifted diplomat, and a man of deep personal integrity.

Robert E. Lee: The Civil War Day by Day, 1861-1865 provides an unparalleled account of the life and career of this extraordinary man. Based on extensive research, this book traces Lee's life from his birth in 1807 to his death in 1870. Along the way, it provides a detailed account of his military campaigns, his political activities, and his personal life.

This book is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the Civil War and its impact on American history. It is also a fascinating portrait of one of the most complex and enigmatic figures in American history.

The Early Years

Robert Edward Lee was born on January 19, 1807, at Stratford Hall, Virginia. His father, Henry Lee III, was a distinguished Revolutionary War general and governor of Virginia. His mother, Ann Hill Carter, was the daughter of a wealthy planter. Lee grew up in a privileged environment, and he received a classical education at home.

In 1825, Lee entered the United States Military Academy at West Point. He graduated second in his class in 1829, and he was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Army Corps of Engineers.

Lee served in the Army Corps of Engineers for 10 years. During this time, he worked on a variety of projects, including the construction of fortifications and the improvement of waterways.

The Mexican-American War

In 1846, the United States declared war on Mexico. Lee was assigned to the Army of the Potomac, and he served under General Winfield Scott. Lee distinguished himself in the Mexican-American War, and he was brevetted to the rank of major for his gallantry at the Battle of Cerro Gordo.

The Civil War

When the Civil War broke out in 1861, Lee was a colonel in the United States Army. He was offered command of the Union Army, but he declined. Instead, he resigned his commission and joined the Confederate Army.

Lee was appointed commander of the Army of Northern Virginia, and he quickly proved himself to be a brilliant strategist. He won a series of victories over the Union Army, including the battles of Second Manassas, Antietam, and Chancellorsville.

However, Lee's most famous victory was the Battle of Gettysburg. In July 1863, Lee invaded Pennsylvania with the intention of destroying the Union Army. But the Union Army, under the command of General George Meade, defeated Lee at Gettysburg. This was a turning point in the Civil War, and it marked the beginning of the end for the Confederacy.

After Gettysburg, Lee continued to fight the Union Army for another two years. But the Confederacy was outnumbered and outgunned, and Lee was eventually forced to surrender at Appomattox Court House in April 1865.

The Post-War Years

After the Civil War, Lee returned to Virginia. He became the president of Washington College (now Washington and Lee University),and he worked to promote reconciliation between the North and the South.

Lee died on October 12, 1870, at the age of 63. He is buried in the Lee Chapel at Washington and Lee University.

Legacy

Robert E. Lee is one of the most controversial figures in American history. He is often seen as a symbol of the Confederacy and of the fight for states' rights.

However, Lee was also a complex and compassionate man. He was a devoted husband and father, and he was deeply concerned about the welfare of his soldiers.

Lee's legacy is complex and contested. But there is no doubt that he was one of the most important figures in American history.

Robert E. Lee: The Civil War Day by Day, 1861-1865 is an essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the Civil War and its impact on American history. It is also a fascinating portrait of one of the most complex and enigmatic figures in American history.

From Arlington to Appomattox: Robert E. Lee’s Civil War, Day by Day, 1861-1865

by Charles R. Knight

4.6 out of 5