|
Robert E. Lee's father, "Light-Horse Harry" Lee, a revolutionary war hero, abandoned his family and left them penniless. Because his mother was often ill, young Robert grew up having to be in charge. He enrolled in the U.S. Military Academy because it was an ideal career for a hero's son and because it was free, graduating without a single demerit, an Academy record never equaled. The young officer was admired for his kindness, generosity, and courtesy. He disliked slavery and was opposed to the idea of secession. But his loyalty to Viriginia, and to his friends and family there, convinced him to join the Rebel cause, and he served the Confederacy with intelligence, skill, and honor.
|
|
|