# The Final Days and Death of Robert E. Lee
The life of Robert E. Lee, a figure synonymous with the Confederate cause during the American Civil War, ended not on the battlefield, but in the quietude of his Virginia home. Despite his military prowess and subsequent role in post-war reconciliation, the circumstances surrounding his death offer a poignant conclusion to a life marked by profound historical significance. Understanding his final moments requires a look at his health in the years preceding his demise, the immediate events that led to his passing, and the legacy he left behind.
Lee’s post-war years were dedicated to rebuilding his life and contributing to the new nation. After accepting a professorship at Washington College (now Washington and Lee University) in Lexington, Virginia, he focused on education and healing the nation’s wounds. He was a respected figure, embodying a quiet dignity that sought to bridge the divides of the recent conflict.
## A Lingering Illness and Sudden Decline
In the years following the Civil War, Robert E. Lee experienced a decline in his health. While he remained active in his role at Washington College, he suffered from various ailments that gradually weakened him. The exact cause of his death has been a subject of historical discussion, but the prevailing understanding points to a severe illness that struck him in the autumn of 1870.
### The Onset of Pneumonia
In September 1870, Lee began to feel unwell. He developed symptoms that were soon recognized as pneumonia. The illness progressed rapidly, and by September 28th, his condition had worsened significantly. He struggled to breathe, and his strength ebbed away. The once-imposing figure was now frail and confined to his bed, a stark contrast to the commanding general of the Confederacy.
Robert E. Lee’s final words are often reported as “Strike out the sun–it is too bright.” This poignant utterance, if accurate, could be interpreted in various ways, perhaps reflecting his failing eyesight, his weariness with the world, or a profound sense of resignation.
## The Final Hours and Passing
Despite the best efforts of his physicians, Lee’s condition continued to deteriorate. The community of Lexington rallied around him, offering prayers and support. However, the advanced stage of his illness and his weakened state made recovery unlikely.
On the morning of October 12, 1870, Robert E. Lee passed away at his home in Lexington, Virginia. He was 63 years old. His death sent ripples of sorrow not only through the South but also across the nation, as many recognized the end of an era.
## Legacy and Remembrance
The death of Robert E. Lee marked the end of a complex and controversial life. He remains a figure of intense debate, admired by some for his leadership and perceived gentlemanly conduct, and condemned by others for his role in defending the institution of slavery and leading the Confederate armies.
* **Post-War Contributions:** After the war, Lee actively encouraged reconciliation and the rebuilding of the nation. His leadership at Washington College aimed to foster unity and provide education to young men, regardless of their background.
* **Enduring Symbolism:** Lee’s image continues to be a powerful symbol, evoking different emotions and interpretations depending on one’s perspective on the Civil War and its causes.
Lee’s final resting place is in the chapel crypt at Washington and Lee University, a place that was central to his life in his final years. His tomb has become a site of pilgrimage for those seeking to connect with a pivotal figure in American history.
### Key Events in Lee’s Later Life:
* **1865:** Surrenders to Ulysses S. Grant at Appomattox Court House.
* **1865:** Becomes President of Washington College.
* **1870:** Falls ill with pneumonia.
* **October 12, 1870:** Dies in Lexington, Virginia.
## Frequently Asked Questions
**Q1: What was the immediate cause of Robert E. Lee’s death?**
A1: Robert E. Lee died from complications of pneumonia.
**Q2: Where did Robert E. Lee die?**
A2: He died at his home in Lexington, Virginia.
**Q3: When did Robert E. Lee die?**
A3: He passed away on October 12, 1870.
**Q4: What was Robert E. Lee’s role after the Civil War?**
A4: After the Civil War, Lee served as the president of Washington College (now Washington and Lee University) in Lexington, Virginia, advocating for reconciliation and education.
**Q5: How old was Robert E. Lee when he died?**
A5: Robert E. Lee was 63 years old at the time of his death.
**Q6: Where is Robert E. Lee buried?**
A6: Robert E. Lee is buried in the chapel crypt at Washington and Lee University in Lexington, Virginia.
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| Category | Information |
| :——————– | :—————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————- |
| **Full Name** | Robert Edward Lee |
| **Born** | January 19, 1807, Stratford Hall, Westmoreland County, Virginia, U.S. |
| **Died** | October 12, 1870 (aged 63), Lexington, Virginia, U.S. |
| **Cause of Death** | Pneumonia |
| **Caste** | White |
| **Citizenship** | United States |
| **Alma Mater** | United States Military Academy (West Point) |
| **Occupation** | Military Officer, Educator |
| **Rank (Civil War)** | General (Confederate States Army) |
| **Commands Held** | Commander of the Army of Northern Virginia; Commander of Confederate forces |
| **Spouse** | Mary Anna Custis Lee |
| **Children** | George Washington Custis Lee, Mary Custis Lee, William Henry Fitzhugh Lee, Anne Carter Lee, Eleanor Agnes Lee, Robert E. Lee Jr. |
| **Post-War Role** | President of Washington College (now Washington and Lee University) from 1865 to 1870 |
| **Key Battles** | First Bull Run, Antietam, Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, Wilderness, Spotsylvania Court House, Cold Harbor, Siege of Petersburg, Appomattox Campaign |
| **Authentic Reference**| [https://www.nps.gov/liro/learn/historyculture/robert-e-lee.htm](https://www.nps.gov/liro/learn/historyculture/robert-e-lee.htm) |
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