General Dwight D. Eisenhower, a five-star general and Supreme Allied Commander during World War II, later became the 34th President of the United States. Renowned for his military and leadership prowess, Eisenhower also admired historical figures, including the Confederate General Robert E. Lee.
In 1960, Eisenhower received a letter from Leon Scott, questioning why the President included a portrait of Robert E. Lee among the four great Americans displayed in his office. Scott, clearly critical of Lee, asked Eisenhower to explain his admiration for the Confederate general.
While Eisenhower did not personally respond to every letter, he felt compelled to address this one. His reply offered deep insight into why he held Lee in such high regard. In his response, Eisenhower wrote:
“General Robert E. Lee was, in my estimation, one of the supremely gifted men produced by our Nation… He was thoughtful yet demanding of his officers and men, forbearing with captured enemies but ingenious, unrelenting, and personally courageous in battle, and never disheartened by a reverse or obstacle.”
Eisenhower highlighted Lee’s leadership qualities, personal courage, and unwavering faith in God, praising Lee’s noble character and selflessness even in the face of immense challenges. He believed that Lee’s devotion to his nation, particularly his efforts to heal the country after the Civil War, set an example for future generations.
“To the degree that present-day American youth will strive to emulate his rare qualities… we, in our own time of danger in a divided world, will be strengthened and our love of freedom sustained.”
Eisenhower’s deep respect for Lee was rooted in his admiration for Lee’s character, leadership, and dedication to reconciliation after the war. In closing, Eisenhower firmly stated:
“Such are the reasons that I proudly display the picture of this great American on my office wall.”
This thoughtful response sheds light on Eisenhower’s views of Robert E. Lee as not just a military leader but as a man of integrity, courage, and conviction—qualities that, in Eisenhower’s eyes, transcended the divisions of the Civil War.
