Robert Edward Lee January 19, 1807 – October 12, 1870

Background United States Army Officer Engineer General He is best known for commanding the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia in the American Civil War. He partook in the Mexican War, repeatedly winning distinction for conduct and bravery. Lee contributed to John Brown's "temporary success“ in Harpers Ferry. Lee was known for in some sense being opposed to slavery.

Early Life Lee was born to an affluent family in Westmoreland County, VA. His father, Henry “Light Horse” Lee was a Revolutionary War hero. An accomplished scholar, Lee graduated as the salutatorian from West Point Military Academy in 1829. On June 30th, 1831, Lee wed Mary Anna Randolph Curtis, while stationed at Fort Monroe. They subsequently had seven children. This photograph depicts West Point Military Academy, where Lee graduated with no demerits.

Role in the War Lincoln proposed for Lee to take command of the Union army, which he declined, due to the succession of Virginia. Lee’s victories in the civil war included the Seven Days Battle, Second Battle of Bull Run, and the Battle of Cold Harbor; but his attempts to invade the North failed. In the Battle of Antietam, 1862, Lee barely escaped defeat and was forced to retreat to the South. Lee was ultimately defeated at the Battle of Gettysburg. Lee later surrendered at the Appomattox Courthouse and by June 1865 all the remaining Confederate armies had also surrendered.

Significance Historians pay close attention to Lee’s battlefield tactics and maneuvering, though many think he should have designed a better strategic plan for the Confederacy in the war. Robert E. Lee’s military strategy, tactical skill, and the confidence of his troops earned him the title of one of the most successful military leaders during that time.

Dubbed “The Marble Man”, Lee is still revered in the South to this day…

Monument on Lee Circle, New Orleans, LA

“Recumbent Statue” in Lexington VA, at Lee’s Chapel

Statue on Monument Avenue, Richmond, VA

Monument in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

Statue in Virginia Capitol Building

Figure at University of Texas at Austin

“Do your duty in all things “Do your duty in all things. You cannot do more; you should not wish to do less.” -Robert E. Lee