Was Robert E. Lee an Evil Person?

Robert E. Lee's legacy often attracts controversial debate, with many seeking to understand his actions and motivations during the Civil War. Was Lee an evil person, or was he a figure who believed he was doing what was right for his time? This article aims to explore this complex question by examining Lee's character, ethical stance, and the context of his actions.

Lee as a Peerless Christian: A Defender of His Land and People

No. Robert E. Lee was a peerless Christian who dedicated his life to protecting his people, his family, and his state from an unjust and unconstitutional Federal invasion. It is essential to weigh any insults and derogatory remarks with a healthy dose of skepticism. Though Lee's actions may be viewed through a contemporary lens, it is crucial to understand the context in which they took place.

Leadership and Morality: An Incomplete Dichotomy

Our obsession with whether leaders are personally evil or good is largely misguided. Rather than seeking saints or monsters, we should acknowledge that most people, including ourselves, are a blend of both virtues and flaws. The quest to sanctify or condemn leaders often serves to avoid taking personal responsibility. We may align ourselves with a leader to feel justified in our actions, but it is crucial to recognize the complexities within each of us.

The Duality of Lee's Character

Lee was a man who followed his conscience, even when it conflicted with what others might consider morally or ethically just. He took actions based on what he believed to be right, even if it was viewed as morally or ethically questionable. This duality is a common trait among historical figures who have been placed in similar positions.

Defending or Promoting Evil?

While it is true that Lee defended some actions that may appear morally reprehensible today, it is unfair to label him as someone who was complicit in evil. Throughout the Civil War, Lee adhered to the rules of war and demonstrated fair play. His soldiers revered him, as evidenced by his surrender at Appomattox, where a stunned Ulysses S. Grant noted, “A more mannered moral and God-fearing man I could not ask for in defeat.” This statement reflects the high regard in which Lee was held by his contemporaries and even by the enemy.

Myth vs. Reality: The Legacy of General Lee

General Lee was far from an evil person. He was loved by his soldiers, who were willing to sacrifice everything for him. Many who question his actions do so based on a revisionist interpretation of history. The war between the states was economic in nature, and President Lincoln's hand was stained with much more blood than Lee's. It is worth exploring the darker side of Lincoln's presidency, including his conspiracy to give land to rich Union developers who exploited former slaves, the Mankato massacre, and his refusal to meet with Black dignitaries.

The Ethical Implications

More importantly, it is worth questioning: are you evil if you support evil? This is a challenging question that invites introspection. The institution of slavery, which many Southern leaders, including Lee, defended, has left an indelible mark on American history and remains a source of pain and controversy.

The Moral Quandary: H.G. Wells' Insight

Ultimately, H.G. Wells, author of The Land Ironclads, captured the essence of this moral dilemma. He wrote, "The basis of Pickett's Charge is rather the basis of all our existences. Our morality consists in not being our less moral neighbors, and our morality suffers in proportion to our failing in this. To be human we have to believe that we are better than our less moral neighbors." This quote speaks to the moral relativism that exists in all human societies, challenging us to reflect on our own moral compasses.

A Final Word

Robert E. Lee is a complex historical figure, and his legacy is multifaceted. By examining his deeds and the context in which they were performed, we can gain a more nuanced understanding of both his character and the historical period in which he lived. As we continue to grapple with the legacies of figures from the past, it is important to remember that the truth often lies in the gray areas, rather than in black and white absolutism.