Happy 210th Birthday

[Ysabel Kid]

General Robert E. Lee

From today's Patriot Digest...

Jan. 19, 2017

Today we take a moment to remember the 210th birth anniversary of Robert E. Lee (1807-1870), one of the greatest military commanders in American history who gave his all for the cause of Liberty and states' rights. He was also a great man of faith, saying, “I can only say that I am nothing but a poor sinner, trusting in Christ alone for salvation.”

There were many honorable men of the Confederate States of America, whose objective was, first and foremost, the protection of states' rights — men who were decidedly not motivated by the continuation of the abhorrent institution of slavery.

For a better understanding on the issues of the day, read our perspective on Abraham Lincoln, which was not included in your grade-school civics class. The honor we give men like Lee has its roots in the founding of this great nation.

Mark Alexander notes in his essay, “Lincoln’s Legacy at 2001,” that “the causal case for states' rights is most aptly demonstrated by the words and actions of Gen. Lee, who detested slavery and opposed secession. In 1860, however, Gen. Lee declined President Abraham Lincoln’s request that he take command of the Army of the Potomac, saying that his first allegiance was to his home state of Virginia: ‘I have, therefore, resigned my commission in the army, and save in defense of my native state … I hope I may never be called on to draw my sword.’ He would, soon thereafter, take command of the Army of Northern Virginia, rallying his officers with these words: ‘Let each man resolve to be victorious, and that the right of self-government, liberty, and peace shall find him a defender.’”
After the war, Lee retired from military life and advocated for reconciliation between the states. He said of any idea of continued hostilities, “So far from engaging in a war to perpetuate slavery, I am rejoiced that slavery is abolished. I believe it will be greatly for the interests of the South.” President Andrew Johnson granted him amnesty in 1868.

He served as president of what is now Washington and Lee University from October 1865 until his death in October 1870.

[gamekeeper]

A great commander and in my humble opinion, a great American.

[Blaine]