Robert E. Lee represented a racist south - and one whose lasting legacy was the involuntary enslavement of others. This man should not be celebrated.
Posted on 01/19/2005 7:38:59 AM PST by Valin
After four years of arduous service, marked by unsurpassed courage and fortitude, the Army of Northern Virginia has been compelled to yield to overwhelming numbers and resources.
I need not tell the survivors of so many hard-fought battles who have remained steadfast to the last that I have consented to this result from no distrust of them; but feeling that valor and devotion could accomplish nothing that could compensate for the loss that would have attended the continuance of the contest, I determined to avoid the useless sacrifice of those whose past services have endeared them to their countrymen. By the terms of the agreement, officers and men can return to their homes and remain until exchanged.
You may take with you the satisfaction that proceeds from the consciousness of duty faithfully performed, and I earnestly pray that a merciful God will extend to you his blessing and protection.
With an unceasing admiration of your constancy and devotion to your country, and a grateful remembrance of your kind and generous consideration of myself, I bid you all an affectionate farewell.
His lasting legacy is a great minstrel song: Waiting for the Robert E. Lee.
I pass by his boyhood home in Alexandria, VA often. I always salute as I do. His memory deserves no less.
And part of a lame Joan Baez song, "The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down".
Dixie ping
I have just posted this on Christian News in maine.com for our readers, I am adding a link back here so that our readers can enjoy Freeper comments.
FO!
Aw, come on. You just don't want to chip in on the birthday gift.
Happy Birthday General Robert E. Lee. He is the definition of a gentleman.
I don't know on which level to respond to this garbage. (not enough time while at work)
Happy Birthday Robert E. Lee!
From a PROUD Southerner!!!
I consistently fail to see why these losers are lionized.
Ignorance really is bliss, isn't it?
Go away newbie troll.
Yup.
"If ignorance is bliss, 'tis folly to be wise."
Maybe you two didnt catch this, but he was asked to be the Commander of US Forces. The only reason he didnt take it was because Virginia as a state suceded from the Union. And, although it doesnt say it, he lobbied for them not to.
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