From starting out at West point to his graduation, R.E. Lee was to all extents...average. It was later on that in true combat he proved his mettle and apptitude for war. He never truly wanted to fight for the Confederate States of America; he vowed to protect his beloved state of Virginia. And due to the inability of the government and the Union Armies subsequent invasion, he went home to defend his people and his state. The greatest mistake Lee ever made was at Gettysburg. He ignored wise council and pressed the attack. However, while the outcome was anything but assured; Lee fell back into his former mediocre ways and held back.
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