Robert E. Lee

The military was in Robert E. Lee's blood. His father was Revolutionary War hero Henry Lee. Following in his father's footsteps, Robert would become one of the most famous general's in American history, although he fought for a losing cause.

Born in Westmoreland County, Virginia, in 1807, Lee's paternal ancestors were some of the first Virginia settlers, forging a deep familial loyalty to the state. At 18, Lee entered the United States Military Academy at West Point and finished second in his class of 46 cadets, graduating without receiving a single demerit. Lee served in the Corps of Engineers until tasting his first action during the Mexican-American War. After distinguished service in combat, Lee returned to engineering until becoming West Point superintendent in 1852. Following his term at West Point, Lee ended his 25-year career with the Corps of Engineers, accepting an appointment as Lieutenant Colonel of the 2nd U.S. Cavalry.

With the Civil War looming, the Union Army attempted to give Lee a top command, but Lee said he'd only accept if Virginia remained in the Union. When Virginia seceded, Lee resigned from the U.S. Army and fought with the Confederates.

Despite early setbacks, Lee eventually assumed command of the Army of Northern Virginia. Lee gained the nicknames "Granny Lee" and "Ace of Spades" for his defensive strategy and trench digging to fortify Virginia. But Lee would prove his critics wrong, blistering the Union forces with a series of aggressive attacks, conquering their superior numbers with brilliant battlefield tactics and maneuvering. He scored decisive victories at Seven Days Battles, the Second Battle of Bull Run, the Battle of Fredericksburg, and the Battle of Chancellorsville. But Lee earned his greatest respect following his surrender, acting as a true gentleman and serving as a source of Southern pride for generations.

Labels: famous generals, historical battels, war heroes