Surely Lee went into the war with a good reputation as a soldier, therefore of course Lincoln wanted him. He had th highest pedigree and credentials. During the war, he did the only thing he could do ... take mammoth risks.
Grant came into the war with very little acclaim, but he proved over and over that he was a great general, and in fact the only general in the north who really knew how to win the war.
I don’t think you can compare the two.
Was not comparing them. Just stating a fact. No military historian would argue that if Lee had had Grants resources the war would have turned out differently. This thread will last a long time and nothing will be settled. Lee and Grant were excellent Generals and were mutually respectful of each other as well they should have been. I have no desire to re-fight the civil war It was a terribly divisive part of our history and there was gallantry and bravery on both sides. There was cowardice and brutality as well. All of us should be proud of our ancestors as they sacrificed for what they believed to be a just cause.
His companion in arms knew how to fight defenseless women ,children and old men