Robert E. Lee

Notable Robert E. Lee Quotes

"The trite saying that honesty is the best policy has met with the just criticism that honesty is not policy. The real honest man is honest from conviction of what is right, not from policy."

"We must expect reverses, even defeats. They are sent to teach us wisdom and prudence, to call forth greater energies, and to prevent our falling into greater disasters."

"Whiskey - I like it, I always did, and that is the reason I never use it."

"Get correct views of life, and learn to see the world in its true light. It will enable you to live pleasantly, to do good, and, when summoned away, to leave without regret."

"I can only say that I am nothing but a poor sinner, trusting in Christ alone for salvation."

"It is well that war is so terrible, or we should grow too fond if it." (said after the Battle of Fredrickburg).

Other Interesting Facts About Robert E. Lee 

It was not a forgone conclusion that Robert E.Lee would command the Confederate States Army. In many ways he sympathized with the North. He considered slavery wrong and supported the preservation of the Union.

In fact, just three months before the war began, he wrote a letter to his son where he said "I can anticipate of no greater calamity for the country than the dissolution of the Union.", yet he turned down Lincoln's offer to command Union forces. In the end, his loyalty to the state of Virginia was stronger than his loyalty to the Union.