Who Was Robert E. Lee?

Bonnie Bader's "Who Was Robert E. Lee?" offers young readers an accessible introduction to one of American history's most complex and controversial figures. Part of the popular "Who Was?" series published by Penguin Workshop, this biography presents the life of the Confederate general in a format designed specifically for middle-grade readers, typically ages 8-12. The book follows the series' established formula of combining narrative text with illustrations to create an engaging educational experience that balances historical accuracy with age-appropriate presentation.

The biography traces Lee's life from his birth in 1807 at Stratford Hall in Virginia through his death in 1870. Bader provides context about Lee's aristocratic Virginia family background, including his father Henry "Light-Horse Harry" Lee's role in the Revolutionary War and subsequent financial troubles. This family history helps readers understand the social and economic circumstances that shaped Lee's early years and the values instilled in him during childhood. The book covers his education at West Point, where he excelled academically and graduated without a single demerit, establishing a reputation for discipline and excellence that would follow him throughout his military career.

The narrative dedicates substantial attention to Lee's service in the United States Army before the Civil War. Bader describes his role in the Mexican-American War, where he served with distinction under General Winfield Scott, and his subsequent assignment as superintendent of West Point. These sections illustrate Lee's capabilities as a military strategist and leader while he served the United States, providing important context for understanding the weight of his later decision to resign from the U.S. Army when Virginia seceded from the Union.

The book addresses the central conflict of Lee's life: his choice to fight for the Confederacy despite his personal reservations about secession. Bader explains that Lee opposed both slavery and secession in principle but felt his ultimate loyalty belonged to Virginia, his home state. This decision, which Lee himself acknowledged caused him great internal struggle, receives careful treatment appropriate for the target age group. The author presents the historical facts without making definitive moral judgments, allowing readers to understand the complexity of the situation within its historical context.

Bader chronicles the major military campaigns of the Civil War in which Lee played a central role, including the Seven Days Battles, the Second Battle of Bull Run, Antietam, Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, and Gettysburg. The Battle of Gettysburg receives particular attention as a turning point in the war and in Lee's military fortunes. The book describes how Lee's Army of Northern Virginia achieved remarkable victories despite being frequently outnumbered, earning him a reputation as a brilliant tactician. However, it also addresses the tremendous human cost of the war and the ultimate defeat of the Confederate cause.

The surrender at Appomattox Court House in April 1865 marks a pivotal moment in the narrative. Bader describes the meeting between Lee and Union General Ulysses S. Grant, emphasizing the dignity and grace both men displayed during this historic encounter. The generous terms of surrender that Grant offered, including allowing Confederate soldiers to keep their horses and return home without facing treason charges, are presented as significant factors in helping the nation begin to heal after four years of devastating conflict.

The book's coverage of Lee's post-war years focuses on his role as president of Washington College in Lexington, Virginia, now known as Washington and Lee University. This section highlights Lee's efforts to promote reconciliation and his dedication to education. Bader notes that Lee discouraged his former soldiers from dwelling on past grievances and encouraged them to become productive citizens of the reunited nation. This period of Lee's life receives less attention than his military career but provides important context about his legacy beyond the battlefield.

The "Who Was?" series format includes supplementary sections that enhance the main narrative. Timeline pages help readers track important dates and events in chronological order, while illustrated spreads provide visual context for understanding historical settings and events. These features make the information more accessible and help reinforce key concepts for younger readers who may be encountering this material for the first time.

The biography maintains an appropriate level of complexity for its intended audience while not oversimplifying the difficult historical and moral questions surrounding Lee's life and choices. The book serves as a starting point for young readers to learn about the Civil War era and consider the complicated nature of historical figures who cannot be easily categorized as heroes or villains. It provides factual information that can form the foundation for deeper exploration as readers mature and develop more sophisticated analytical skills.