Robert E. Lee's Life

Robert E. Lee Was Born

Jan 19, 1807

Robert E. Lee was born in Westmoreland County, Virginia. He was the son of Henry ("Light-Horse Harry") Lee, and Ann Hill Carter Lee. His father was a hero of the American Revolution and a friend of George Washington.

Robert E. Lee Gets Married

Jun 30, 1831

Robert marries Mary Custis at Arlington, who was the great-granddaughter of Martha Washington. The Lees then have seven children during their marriage.

Robert E. Lee Started to Serve in the Mexican War

Apr 25, 1846

Lee served on the staff of General Winfield Scott during the Mexican American War, where he eventually got promoted to Colonel.

Robert. E Lee Becomes a Superintendent

1852

Lee became superintendent of the U.S. Military academy at West Point. He then began to strengthen the academic program and improve the facility.

Robert E. Lee Lead Troops to Ending an Uprising

Oct 18, 1859

Lee became in charge of putting down John Brown's raid which was an uprising on Harpers Ferry.

Robert E Lee Resigns From the U.S. Army

Apr 22, 1861

Lee Resigns from the Army and decides to join the Confederate Army, where he became promoted to general.

Robert E. Lee Became President of a College

1865

Lee accepted a position as the President of Washington and Lee University in Lexington Virginia.

Robert E. Lee Surrendered to U.S Grant

Apr 9, 1865

Lee surrendered to the Army of Northern Virginia, which caused the Civil War to begin drawing to an end.

Robert E. Lee Died

Oct 12, 1870

Lee suffered from a stroke on September 28th and then died two weeks later, probably because of his various physical ailments during his postwar years. He died at age 63, in Lexington Virginia.