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.
Robert E. LeeRead
So far from engaging in a war to perpetuate slavery, I am rejoiced that Slavery is abolished. I believe it will be greatly for the interest of the South. So fully am I satisfied of this that I would have cheerfully lost all that I have lost by the war, and have suffered all that I have suffered to have this object attained.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote expresses relief and support for the abolition of slavery, even if it came at a personal cost.
In this quote, Robert E. Lee articulates a profound shift in perspective regarding slavery and the Civil War. He conveys that, despite the immense sacrifices made, including his personal losses, he finds joy in the abolition of slavery, believing it to be a positive advancement for the South. This reflects a courageous acknowledgment of moral truth over personal or societal interests, illustrating the complexity of his character and views during a tumultuous period in American history.
Themes
SlaveryAbolitionCourageSacrificeMorality
In practice
Example use cases
During a speech on civil rights, one might reference this quote to emphasize the importance of moral courage in fighting injustice.
More from Robert E. Lee
All quotes →Life Insurance trusts I consider sacred. To hazard the property of the dead & to lose the scanty earnings of fathers & husbands, who have toiled & saved that they may leave something to their families deprived of their care & the support of their labour, is to my mind the worst of crimes.
Robert E. LeeRead
It is easier to make our wishes conform to our means than to make our means conform to our wishes.
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Our country demands all our strength, all our energies. To resist the powerful combination now forming against us will require every man at his place. If victorious, we will have everything to hope for in the future. If defeated, nothing will be left for us to live for.
Robert E. LeeRead
With all my devotion to the Union, and the feeling of loyalty and duty of an American citizen, I have not been able to make up my mind to raise my hand against my relative, my children, my home. I have, therefore, resigned my commission in the Army.
Robert E. LeeRead
Lee tells his troops. 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.
Robert E. LeeRead
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