Lee Declines Lincoln's Offer

What actually happened? Lee felt a stronger duty to his home, his family, and his state than he did to the United States. He said he could never raise his sword against his kinsfolk. But as a soldier he definitely was not going to sit on the sidelines. He accepted Jefferson Davis' invitation to lead the Confederate Army. This decision probably prevented Lee from being the hero of the Civil War, perhaps even president of the United States. It also has led to the insistence that his statues and memorials be taken down all over the country.

Did you make the same decision as Lee? If not, do you think you made a better decision? Why?

Click here to return to the decisions