Robert E. Lee

Robert E. Lee 1807-1870

Robert Edward Lee was a Confederate general who fought in the American Civil War. 

Historians comment that Robert was against slavery, against secession, and against war. But his loyalty to Virginia was stronger than anything.

For many people, Robert E. Lee was one of the greatest generals in history. However, it was not until 1975, that his citizenship was fully restored by President Gerald Ford.

Robert went to West Point where he graduated in 1829.

MEXICAN WAR 1846 - 1848

In the Mexican War, Robert E. Lee fought as a captain under General Winfield Scott, who was very impressed by Lee's performance.

1849 - 1860

Back from the war, Robert E. Lee was superintendent at West Point from 1852 until 1855. He then was made lieutenant colonel and served in Texas from 1857 - 1861.

AMERICAN CIVIL WAR 1861 - 1865

On June 1, 1862, Robert E. Lee became commander of the Army of Northern Virginia, after General Joseph E. Johnston was wounded at Fair Oaks.

In February 1865, Lee became commander of all Southern armies.

On April 9, 1865, he surrendered to Union General Ulysses S. Grant at the home of Wilmer McClean in the small village of Appomattox Court House, Virginia. This officially ended the American Civil War.

1865 - 1870

After the Civil War and without a job, Robert E. Lee became president of Washington College in Lexington, Virginia.