Castagna Famous American Collection
Robert Edward Lee ...1807-1878 Confederate General No one was quicker to grasp a military situation, or make the most of an opportunity, even with inferior numbers of men or material. He never faced the Union on even terms. Lee was unequaled in the use of field entrenchments. Above all, he had the love of his men. Lincoln offered him command of the Union Armies; he declined as he could not fire upon his own people. In 1825, Lee was appointed to West Point, where his aptitude for mathematics won him Adjutant of the Cadet Corps. Upon graduation, he was commissioned in the Corps of Engineers. Excelling in the war with Mexico, he was appointed to the staff of General Scott. His successes in the Civil War are legend (ary). After the war, he became president of Washington University, later named Washington and Lee University. |