Robert E. Lee's Decision: A Militarist's Loyalty and Dilemma

History often presents us with moments that challenge our understanding of loyalty, patriotism, and the complexities of allegiance. One such pivotal moment occurred in the early days of the American Civil War, when President Abraham Lincoln offered General Robert E. Lee command of the Union Army. Lee's response to this offer reflects a profound and personal dilemma that ultimately shaped not only his life but also the course of American history.

Abraham Lincoln's Offer to Lee

Even for those not deeply versed in history, it is widely known that President Lincoln considered General Robert E. Lee for the command of the Union forces at the very outset of the Civil War. This offer was part of a broader effort by President Lincoln and his military advisors to secure the loyalty of prominent military figures during a time of national crisis.

Lincoln and General Winfield Scott discussed making the offer to Lee, recognizing his reputation as one of the finest officers in the U.S. Army. However, the offer was not unconditional. When Virginia seceded on April 17, 1861, Lee's decision to remain loyal to his home state led to a significant shift in the war's landscape. Lee's position as a respected figure and his commitment to his home state ultimately dictated his choice to command the Confederate Army.

Lee's Resignation and Implied Citizenship

Lee's decision was not made without intense internal conflict. Lee, a West Point graduate and a Confederate native son, faced the difficult choice of fighting against his own people. His resignation letter to President Lincoln, dated April 21, 1861, reads:

‘I cannot raise my hand against my native state, my family, my children, my everything! I do not blame them, although I blame the policy which has led them here… We must be in the right; we believe we are, and firmly intend to appeal to the final arbiter of our fate—effort and endurance.’

Lee's decision was further complicated by the fact that he had to give up his U.S. citizenship. While his letter does not explicitly state this, it is inferred that by choosing to command the Confederate forces, Lee effectively resigned from his position in the Union Army and, by extension, his citizenship.

The Role of Personal Reflection and Historical Context

The passage of time has allowed historians to delve deeper into Lee's personal thoughts and feelings. Despite the lack of memoirs from Lee himself, scholars have pieced together insights from contemporaneous accounts, letters, and biographies. Some historians suggest that Lee did express regret and sorrow over the consequences of the war. This sentiment is inferred from the tone and content of his correspondence and public statements made after the war's end.

While Lee's decision has been subject to much speculation and debate, it is clear that he was deeply committed to the cause of the Confederacy. However, this commitment did not preclude an evolving perspective on the war's broader implications. Lee's apparent reluctance to fully embrace the suffering caused by the conflict may have been influenced by his personal background and the political realities he confronted.

Symbolic Significance and Personal Connection

The story of Lee's decision carries significant symbolic weight. It represents a moment when individual choice and national destiny intersected. Lee's actions during this period are part of a larger narrative of personal and collective sacrifice during the Civil War era.

Visiting historic sites related to this period, such as Arlington House, provides a tangible connection to the past. Standing in the room where Lee no doubt made his decision, one can only imagine the weight of his thoughts and emotions. This place serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of historical decisions.

For many visitors, this place is not just a historical site but a place of reflection and emotion. As I toured the Arlington mansion and stood in the room where Lee made his decision, I felt a sense of connection to the past. It was a moment of profound contemplation, a blend of historical significance and personal empathy.

Conclusion

The decision of Robert E. Lee to command the Confederate Army during the American Civil War is a landmark moment in history. It reflects the deep complexities of military loyalty, personal ethics, and the broader implications of civil conflict. Lee's choice not only shaped his own legacy but also had far-reaching consequences for the nation. As we reflect on this historical period, we are reminded of the enduring impact of individual actions and the ongoing relevance of these complex moral and historical debates.

References

It is recommended for readers to explore primary sources and scholarly works for a more comprehensive understanding of Robert E. Lee's decision and its historical context. Key works include:

'Memoirs of Robert E. Lee' by General R.E. Lee, published posthumously. Biographies such as 'Grant' by Joseph E. Davies and 'Lee' by Douglas Southall Freeman. Historical works by scholars like Bruce Catton and James M. McPherson.