Robert E. Lee's Decision to Join the Confederacy: A Complicated Journey
Robert E. Lee's decision to refuse the position of Supreme Commander of the Union Army, which Abraham Lincoln offered him in April 1861, was a complex one influenced by various factors. This article explores the reasons behind his choice, examining his loyalty to Virginia, personal beliefs, military reputation, and reluctance to fight against his own people.
Why Lee Refused the Union Army's Offer
One of the primary reasons Lee refused the position of Supreme Commander of the Union Army was his deep loyalty to his home state of Virginia. Lee had a strong personal and emotional connection to Virginia, both as a native and a resident. This allegiance was so strong that he felt his loyalty to Virginia outweighed his commitment to the broader federal government.
Another crucial factor was Lee's personal beliefs regarding states' rights and the issue of secession. While he personally opposed the concept of secession, he believed that the states possessed the right to self-governance. This belief in states' rights significantly influenced his decision to join the Confederacy.
Lee also had a distinguished military career, having served in the U.S. Army and held the position of an instructor at West Point. Serving in the Union Army would have been a natural progression for his military career. However, he felt that he could better serve both his military career and his personal values by aligning with the Confederacy.
A personal aspect contributing to Lee's decision was his reluctance to fight against his own people. As a Virginian, he felt a profound sense of ethical and moral conflict about the prospect of leading the Union Army in a war against Southern states. The idea of turning his arms against fellow Virginians and Southern citizens was worlds apart from the principles of brotherhood and unity that he held dear.
Consequences and Allegiance Shift
It is worth noting that Lee's refusal of the Union Army's offer was not merely a personal decision but a moment that marked a significant shift in his allegiance. By resigning his commission in the Union, Lee chose to align with the Confederacy, where he could serve as the commander of the Confederate States Army (CSA).
This decision was further cemented by the secession of Virginia from the Union. Given the likelihood of secession, Lee felt that accepting the position of Supreme Commander of the Union Army would have placed him at odds with his home state, thereby becoming an enemy of his own people—a prospect he could not face.
The contrast with Lee's cousin, Samuel, provides an interesting parallel. Samuel, a naval officer, chose to remain loyal to the Union and played a notable role in the Atlantic blockade of the Confederacy. This stark contrast underscores the personal and familial dimensions of the decision-makers during this tumultuous period.
Conclusion
Robert E. Lee's decision to join the Confederacy, while complex, was primarily driven by his loyalty to Virginia, his personal and moral beliefs, and his reluctance to fight against his own people. For Lee, the choice was between his home state and the broader federal government, ultimately leading him to align with the Confederacy, where he felt his values and loyalty would be best represented.