Grant losing mo'; Reagan gaining
UWS Correspondent writes:
Cheers. And thanks for the write up. I feel it is my duty to stick up for binge drinking Republicans.I am a great admirer of Lee, as well. Just finished Gods and Generals. Awesome book. And I agree that Lee was the superior General. No question.
To your point... I think there were other Generals who could have done what Grant did to save this country.I don't think there were any other presidents who could have done what Reagan did to save this country.
Ronny on the 50 is just fine with me.
And just because I think they're interesting... two quick anecdotes about Grant and Lee and their interesting relationship.
Robert E. Lee, specifically, spoke in glowing terms about his adversary. He was particularly grateful for the generous treatment he had received at Appomattox and that Grant threatened to resign his commission in the Army if Andrew Johnson continued to persecute Lee. In May of 1865, Lee spoke openly of his feelings on this issue: "As to my own fate, I know not what is in store for me. I believe the politicians in Washington are bent on the most extreme measures, and if they have their way will stop at no humiliation they can heap on me. My sole reliance is on General Grant. I have faith in his honor and his integrity as a soldier, and do not believe he will permit the terms of my surrender of the parole given me, to be violated."
Grant assisted Lee in more covert ways in the late 1860's. In 1869, it was suggested by members of Congress that the rotunda of the Capitol include a massive painting representing Lee surrendering to Grant. The Congressmen visited Grant and told them of the proposal, expecting the President-Elect to be amenable to the suggestion. Instead, the usual calm and unruffled Grant became markedly agitated. "No, gentlemen," Grant said, "it won't do. No power on earth will make me agree to your proposal. I will not humiliate General Lee or our Southern friends in depicting their humiliation and then celebrating the event in the nation's capitol." This immediately ended any discussion of the painting.
Great tidbits UWS!
