Robert Lee's Contribution To The Civil War

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Robert E. Lee’s (1807-1870) contribution to the United States as a war general and commander received positive connotations for his commitment, attitude and inspiration on the battlefield. However, it is debateable about his contributions because of Robert Lee’s association in the Civil War (1861-1865) to the Confederate Army that fought for the Southern States. Robert Lee lead many successful campaigns and battles including the following; helping defeat Mexican armies that lead to U.S land gains and westward expansion, battles against a more powerful army in the Civil War. Despite these achievements Lee’s loyalty for the Confederate Army that fought to uphold slavery undermines his success and is highly debateable about whether his contribution is justified or not. Robert Lee’s contributions to his nation begin before the Civil War in the Mexican-American War (1846-1848). The war between the U.S and Mexico began with the United State’s annexation of Texas in 1845 and disputes over land. Lee first starts to establish himself in his aid in the Battles of Cerro Gordo, Veracruz, Contreras, Churubusco and Chapultepec. These are valued by his nation and for his service, Lee received brevet promotions to lieutenant colonel and colonel. As a captain on the staff of General Winfield Scott, the battles including the Siege of Veracruz, Cerro Gordo and Contreras became the most crucial. Lee’s involvement saw him find routes through thick bush that helped rout the Mexicans and in the

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